The lame duck session of Congress began Monday . Congress must tackle multiple controversial issues before the end of the year . House Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced his intention to back an earmark ban . In the Senate , two new members -- Delaware 's Chris Coons and West Virginia 's Joe Manchin -- were sworn in by Vice President Joe Biden . Newly elected House members reiterate their intention to push for smaller government .
The lame duck session of Congress began Monday . Congress must tackle multiple controversial issues before the end of the year . House Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced his intention to back an earmark ban . Newly elected House members reiterate their intention to push for smaller government .