Trump trials, possible government shutdown loom in 2024

It's now a presidential election year, and while the battle for the White House will take center stage, there are other political events to watch for.

Now that a new year has started, voters have a presidential election to look forward to this year. Although the battle for the White House will get plenty of attention, it is not the only major political event that will occur in 2024.

Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer only have until Jan. 19 to avoid a partial government shutdown. That's because funding for about 20% of the government, including some veterans assistance programs, is set to run out then. On Feb. 2, the entire government could shut down unless there is a deal. To make matters even more complicated, Congress isn't expected to return until Jan. 8, and a previous law from last year has billions of dollars worth of government cuts mandated unless Congress acts. 

Not to mention, Congress did not resolve aid to Israel or Ukraine before members left town for the holidays.