Welcome to The Daily Politic Briefing! In today's rapidly evolving political landscape, we bring you the most significant developments from Washington and beyond. From crucial Senate appropriations markups to international relations challenges and the ongoing political chess match ahead of November's elections, we've got you covered with analysis and context on the stories shaping our nation's politics today. In today's briefing, we'll explore Mitch McConnell's return to the Senate Appropriations committee, ongoing debates over the rescissions package, bipartisan efforts on Russia sanctions, and several other critical political developments unfolding across Washington. First up, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has returned to the Senate Appropriations table for the first time in nearly two decades. He's championing a key provision in the Agriculture-FDA bill that would close a regulatory loophole for intoxicating hemp products. As chair of the Defense subcommittee, McConnell is expected to advocate for a strong American global presence, both through military power and foreign aid, with a particular focus on Ukraine funding despite some resistance within his party. Meanwhile, the Senate Appropriations Committee has begun markups of three important spending bills: Commerce-Justice Science, Agriculture-FDA, and Legislative Branch. During the Commerce-Justice-Science markup, Senator Chris Van Hollen plans to offer an amendment opposing the cancellation of the FBI headquarters move to suburban Maryland. Senate leadership is also racing against time to pass the White House's rescissions package, which aims to claw back $9.4 billion in previously approved funding. Several Republican senators expressed concerns during a closed-door GOP lunch, particularly regarding cuts to foreign aid and public media. With a July 18 deadline looming, modifications will likely be needed for the package to pass. On the international front, Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune are prepared to advance a bipartisan bill imposing additional sanctions on Russia. However, the White House is pushing for greater presidential control, insisting on "complete" waiver authority. Thune hopes to have the bill ready for Senate action before the August recess. Looking ahead to potential legislative strategies, Senator Josh Hawley indicated that a second party-line reconciliation bill would require explicit direction from the President. Hawley mentioned additional assistance for rural hospitals as one priority he would support in such legislation. In judicial matters, the Senate is moving forward with several nominations, including Jonathan Gould for comptroller of the currency and Whitney Hermandorfer for the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals. The Senate HELP Committee has also advanced Susan Monarez's nomination to lead the CDC in a party-line vote. As we conclude today's briefing, the political landscape continues to evolve with significant implications for both policy and the upcoming elections. From appropriations battles to international sanctions, the decisions being made now will shape America's direction for months and years to come. Stay tuned to The Daily Political Briefing for ongoing coverage of these critical developments as they unfold in Washington and across the nation. We'll be back tomorrow with more insights and analysis on the stories that matter most.