John McCain, battling brain cancer, returns to Senate

WASHINGTON (AP) — Sen. John McCain declared himself ready for a rigorous Washington schedule after he returned to the Capitol following weeks-long treatment in his home state for brain cancer.

"I feel fine," the six-term Arizona Republican said Tuesday as his Senate colleagues welcomed him — with hugs, pats on the shoulder or a simple handshake.

McCain, the chairman of the Armed Services Committee, said he'll begin shepherding the annual defense policy bill through the Senate next week. The legislation is seeking $700 billion for the Pentagon in the 2018 budget year. Lawmakers are first taking up legislation to speed relief aid to Texas and Louisiana in the wake of the Harvey storm.