The Senate could soon take the first step toward passing President Donald Trump‘s agenda as House Republicans struggle to reach a deal on budget cuts. Until now, Senate Republicans have been giving the House leeway to negotiate an all-encompassing bill that deals with tax reform alongside priorities such as the border and energy.

The move would require Senate Majority Leader John Thune to use precious floor time to advance the president’s nominees through the confirmation process.

Dr. Atul Gawande said denigrating USAID is "dangerous for the country" and shuttering its programs could make Americans less safe.

Senate Democrats are plotting to retaliate against the Trump administration after attempts to restructure or possibly close the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which provides foreign aid and supports democracy around the globe.

Senate Democrats are privately eyeing delays on all Trump nominees as retaliation for his restructuring of USAID, Axios has learned. Why it matters: This would go beyond the "blanket hold" that Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) has placed on State Department nominees.