The Senate has successfully checked off some top priorities before taking their much-anticipated August recess, leaving behind a whirlwind of intrigue and political maneuvering. For starters, against all odds, Todd Blanch was confirmed as the country’s 88th Attorney General in what can only be described as a nail-biting vote. His confirmation was on a narrow edge, thanks to Senator Bill Cassidy’s pivotal decision to back him. Cassidy’s move was crucial after two Republican senators, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, sided with the Democrats. Their choice stirred quite the conversation about loyalty and party lines, but as they say, politics is a complex beast.

After the dust settled, with a vote tally of 50 to 49—a classic example of what political thrillers are made of—Blanch stepped into his new role. He mustered a formal note of gratitude, tipping his hat to President Trump and all the dedicated civil servants at the Department of Justice. He expressed his fervor to uphold the law and duly noted that it won’t be a walk in the park. One can only hope Blanch’s enthusiasm translates into tangible outcomes that bear the weight of his lofty promises.

Now, the Senate didn’t quite leave town without addressing other pressing matters. There was a silver lining: the passage of a bipartisan interim spending bill designed to keep the government lights on come October. This move had overwhelming support, with both sides of the aisle realizing that nobody wants to explain a government shutdown to their constituents while seeking reelection. With 90 votes in favor and only six against, it seems there might still be hope for bipartisanship when push comes to shove, or when re-election campaigns loom.

However, not all is rosy and accomplished. In what has become a trademark of legislative gridlock, the Senate left a few key bills in limbo. The Save America Act, a favorite punching bag of partisan debate, remains stuck in the proverbial mud. Senate Majority Leader John Thune found himself short on votes despite President Trump’s persistent urgings. Perhaps the Senate will take time during their break to muster up the courage or consensus needed to tackle this once they return. Or maybe they’ll opt for more vacation time instead.

Lastly, the contentious bill on regulating money in college athletics also hit a snag over heated disputes about men’s participation in women’s sports. Senator Ted Cruz, not one to mince words, is pushing for this to be a priority in September. With tensions running high in the sports world, this promises to be a sparring match of epic proportions. Once back in session, lawmakers will hopefully channel their inner athletes, cross-party lines, and score victories for both athleticism and fair competition. Until then, stay tuned for what September’s legislative season brings, if anything.