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- ⏰22 Days To Go: This Week on the Hill
⏰22 Days To Go: This Week on the Hill
NDAA work, VA news, and more for you to know this week in Washington, DC.
There are now 22 days before the government faces a potential shutdown. While work on the NDAA dominates the week, funding tensions will continue to rise until Democrats and Republicans reach an agreement.
The Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee is back in action, hosting a hearing on a pending nomination this Wednesday. The Nimitz team is here to keep you informed on all you need to know.
In this week’s Nimitz Report:
Remembering 9/11: VA national cemeteries to host day of service
VA to discontinue DS Logon: Another September 30 deadline to watch for
“Department of War”: Mixed reaction from veterans & advocates
WHO’S HAVING EVENTS THIS WEEK?
Red Star: House Event, Blue Star: Senate Event, Purple Star: Joint Event, Green Star: Other Event
Wednesday, September 8th
✅ Commitee Hearing: “Hearing to Consider a Pending Nomination,” Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC) at 4 pm. Watch here.
NEWS DRIVING THE WEEK
Congress faces a busy second week back in session.
Congressional News
Congress is resuming work on the annual defense authorization bill this week, aiming to process hundreds of proposed amendments and finalize versions for upcoming conference negotiations. The Senate will begin votes Tuesday on the legislation, which includes military spending plans and renewals of pay and benefits programs, while the House Rules Committee met today to determine which of over 1,000 filed amendments will be considered. Contentious issues are expected to include National Guard deployments, budget targets, and social policy disputes. Lawmakers hope to finalize the bill by Thanksgiving despite potential delays due to government funding battles.
Senate Republicans began procedural steps to change chamber rules and fast-track en bloc confirmation of President Trump’s non-Cabinet nominees, excluding judicial picks. Meanwhile, Congress faces a looming government shutdown with only 22 days until funding expires and little progress made on appropriations bills. GOP leaders are weighing short- and long-term continuing resolutions, while Democrats are expected to demand concessions such as extending Obamacare premium tax credits. Negotiations remain complicated by intra-party divisions and a lack of full engagement from the White House, especially President Trump.
Veteran News
On Thursday, September 11, VA national cemeteries across the country will host a day of service and remembrance to honor the victims of the 9/11 attacks. In collaboration with the nonprofit Carry The Load, over 60 cemeteries will offer opportunities for volunteers to clean headstones and engage in beautification efforts. VA officials emphasized the significance of honoring the 47 veterans and dependents who died as a result of the attacks and are buried or memorialized in VA cemeteries, especially in Calverton and Long Island. Participants can register for the events at no cost, and all necessary supplies will be provided.
The VA will discontinue DS Logon access after September 30, 2025, requiring veterans to sign in to VA.gov and mobile apps using Login.gov or ID.me accounts. Most veterans have already transitioned, but those still using DS Logon are urged to switch soon to avoid disruption. The VA is offering detailed instructions, videos, and support to help users create and verify new accounts. These updated login methods offer improved security, streamline access to government services, and meet federal authentication standards. For more information, click here.
National News
A few days ago, President Trump signed an executive order allowing the Department of Defense to use “Department of War” as a secondary name, though a formal renaming would require congressional approval. The move has sparked mixed reactions, with some veterans and advocates expressing concern over the aggressive messaging it conveys internationally. Supporters argue that it reflects strength and better honors veterans, while critics fear it could signal a shift toward militarism. The President framed the change as a rejection of “woke” policies and a return to a more assertive national identity.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“He can come to Kyiv.”
FOR FUN
The Sound of Music is playing at the Kennedy Center Opera House this week. 🎶 For more information, click here.
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