Senate scrambles for the exit amid outstanding to-do list: ‘Clear as mud’

But for some, more time in Washington means less time on the campaign trail, as several GOP incumbents face competitive November reelections. “It’s clear as mud right now,” Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) said of the Senate’s pathway to recess. She and outgoing Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA) are standing in the way of Blanche’s confirmation. AdvertisementSenate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) leaves the chamber at the Capitol in Washington, Thursday, June 18, 2026. “Some of them make me want to throw up in my mouth, but that has nothing to do with this.