Senate Leadership Vacuum Cripples Legislative Function

Sen. Lindsey Graham's death and Mitch McConnell's extended absence leave Senate without key leaders. Stalled items include appropriations, FISA, NDAA, Iran supplemental, farm bill (now passed House). Graham's final Russia sanctions bill advanced 86-12. Growing rift between Trump and Senate Republicans (Thune, Curtis resist filibuster push). Todd Blanche nomination stalled due to Cornyn conditions.