This is "Arkies in the Beltway" for the week of August 10, 2025! I'm Alex Thomas, Washington Correspondent for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, with your look at national politics and the Arkansans influencing the discussions.

U.S. Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Ark., is back in the United States after leading a bipartisan congressional delegation on a trip to Israel.

Crawford, of Jonesboro, and colleagues held multiple discussions with Israeli officials regarding Israel's military efforts against Hamas militants, as well as the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The congressional trip occurred as Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders was in Israel as part of an overseas trade mission.

STORY: Crawford: Israelis doing ‘phenomenal job’ getting aid to Palestinians, but Hamas is in way

The August recess might be in full swing, but many lawmakers are already preparing for what awaits Congress in September.

The Senate and House of Representatives will have four weeks to pass all 12 appropriations measures or some other spending agreement to avert a government shutdown on Oct. 1.

Rep. Steve Womack, R-Ark., has already expressed his disinterest in considering a continuing resolution to fund the government into the new fiscal year.

STORY: Arkansas lawmakers say they’re tired of short-term spending bills passed under threat of shutdown

Thank you for listening to "Arkies in the Beltway!" You can stay up to date with all Arkansas news at ArkansasOnline.com, or follow me on Bluesky for more developments from the nation's capital!