Congressional Summary
SPECIAL NOTE: Congress is in recess for the Memorial Day weekend. Unless there is impactful breaking news, the next regular edition of this summary will be run on Monday, June 1.
This Congressional Floor Summary is a (mostly) daily briefing on U.S. House and Senate floor activity — bills scheduled, votes taken, nominations pending, and the legislative horizon ahead. It is produced by Lens and Mix, LLC using AI-assisted research and will be updated on days Congress is in session.
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119th Congress · 2nd Session
U.S. Congressional Floor Summary
U.S. Congressional Floor Summary
Congressional Floor Summary
House & Senate · Daily Legislative Report
Curated and produced by Lens and Mix, LLC using AI-assisted research
Monday, May 18, 2026
Week of May 18 · Session Day 26 · Reconciliation vote-a-rama TODAY
Week context: Monday opens with the Senate's most consequential vote since the budget resolution adoption — the reconciliation vote-a-rama on the $72B ICE/CBP funding bill begins today, with a final vote possible tonight. The Senate Homeland Security Committee held its 8:00 a.m. business meeting this morning to formally adopt its reconciliation recommendations before sending to the Budget Committee. Sen. Tillis (R-NC) has signaled he may vote no — citing Medicaid and food assistance impacts — which would put the bill at exactly 50 votes, requiring VP JD Vance to break the tie. Collins and Murkowski have also expressed concerns. Meanwhile the House passed the Farm Bill last week (exact vote date to confirm), and Johnson has signaled the House is ready to take up the reconciliation bill "as soon as July 2" with a goal of a July 4 Trump signature. The Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution is holding a hearing today on implementing the Louisiana v. Callais VRA ruling. Murkowski is expected to introduce her Iran AUMF this week.
🔄 What changed since May 16:
- Senate reconciliation vote-a-rama TODAY — Tillis may vote no: The $72B ICE/CBP reconciliation bill (S.Con.Res. 33 implementation) hits the Senate floor today for the vote-a-rama. Tillis (R-NC) has said he will not vote for the bill citing its impact on Medicaid coverage for low-income people and families. Collins and Murkowski have also expressed concerns about the bill's impact on medical care and food assistance. If Tillis votes no: 50–50 tie, VP Vance breaks it. If Collins or Murkowski also votes no: fails. Graham is racing to hold the caucus together. Democrats are preparing Byrd Rule challenges and will force dozens of amendment votes targeting healthcare cuts, food assistance, and the ballroom provision.
- Senate Homeland Security Committee — 8 a.m. business meeting completed: The committee formally adopted its reconciliation recommendations this morning, transmitting them to the Budget Committee for assembly into the final package. This is the procedural step immediately preceding the Senate floor vote.
- House Farm Bill passed: The House passed H.R. 7567 (Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026) last week. Eyes now move to the Senate, where the timeline for the Senate Agriculture Committee's version remains unclear. Johnson said the House is ready to take up the reconciliation bill "as soon as July 2" with a July 4 Trump signature goal.
- Senate Judiciary hearing — "Enforcing Callais" today: The Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution is holding a hearing today on implementing the Supreme Court's Louisiana v. Callais gerrymandering decision. This is the first formal congressional response to the VRA ruling. Louisiana's primary delay attempt faced legal challenges over the weekend; some absentee ballots had already been cast.
- FY2027 appropriations timeline confirmed: Senate Appropriations Chair Collins and Vice Chair Murray making progress on 302(b) topline funding levels, planning markups after July 4 recess. House Appropriations Chair Cole has scheduled THUD subcommittee markup for July 14. The full FY2027 appropriations cycle is running on a July-September timeline — September 30 government shutdown deadline remains the hard backstop.
- Murkowski AUMF introduction expected this week: Murkowski is expected to formally introduce her Iran authorization for use of military force this week. Collins, Tillis, and Curtis are potential co-sponsors. The administration has not responded publicly to the AUMF announcement.
🗓 Legislative Horizon
Major initiatives expected in the weeks ahead & remainder of the 119th Congress (ends Jan 3, 2027)
Now — 2026 midterms
Supreme Court — VRA Section 2 Ruling · Louisiana v. Callais · 6–3
The Supreme Court's 6–3 ruling in Louisiana v. Callais (April 30) effectively guts Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, which had required states to draw majority-minority districts to protect minority voter representation. Justice Alito's majority held that race-based district drawing is constitutionally impermissible absent the narrowest justification. Florida immediately enacted a new gerrymander; Mississippi and Alabama called special sessions. Estimates suggest up to 19 additional Republican-favoring House seats could be drawn by 2028. The Purcell doctrine limits most states from making changes before November 2026 — but Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi are moving now. Congressional Democrats have no legislative path to pass a new VRA or fix. The ruling will dominate redistricting politics through the 2030 census.
Louisiana Gov. attempting to delay May 16 primary — legal challenges expected. FL already enacted. AL/TN in special sessions. Up to 19 House seats could shift R by 2028.
This week
FISA Sec. 702 Reauthorization
Extended as P.L. 119-86 through June 12 — 45-day clean extension signed Thursday. The 3-year deal (S.1318 with CBDC ban) remains unresolved. Senate cannot pass the CBDC permanent ban (needs 60 votes). House conservatives may not accept S.1318 without CBDC. Key question heading into recess: can Thune and Johnson find a compromise that satisfies both chambers? Wyden/Lee bipartisan warrant-requirement alternative still being discussed. New effective negotiating deadline: ~June 12 (72-hour posting rule). Congress returns May 11 with 35 days to spare. House passed S.1318 (3-year) 235–191 Wednesday — but CBDC ban attached is dead on arrival in Senate (needs 60 votes). Thune is likely sending back a clean 45-day extension, which the House can accept under the suspension provision in Wednesday's rule. If a 45-day extension passes both chambers today, new deadline: ~June 15. The 3-year deal negotiations resume after recess with the CBDC question still unresolved. If nothing passes tonight: FISA lapses for the first time in its history.
25 days to June 12. Effective deal deadline ~June 9. Intelligence officials warning lapse would hurt Project Freedom operations. CBDC divide remains central obstacle.
Today
Iran War Powers Act — May 1 Statutory Deadline · Operation Epic Fury
White House declared hostilities "terminated" May 1, but the U.S. naval blockade continues and U.S. forces attacked an Iranian-flagged tanker this week attempting to breach the blockade. Iran revealed peace demands Trump rejected and stalled nuclear talks. Macron calling for Strait reopening. 7th War Powers vote expected this week. Wicker public hearing on Operation Epic Fury expected this week. 13 U.S. service members killed. Gas above $4/gallon nationally. The 60-day War Powers clock that began March 2 expires today. Tuesday's 6th Senate vote reportedly failed 52–48 — the narrowest margin yet. Iran has offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the U.S. lifting its naval blockade. Navy Secretary Phelan announced he is leaving the administration. Trump's options: (1) invoke the 30-day withdrawal notification unilaterally — buying until May 31; (2) seek a formal AUMF (no sign of that); (3) argue ceasefire days don't count toward the 60. Democrats have more resolutions queued. Collins, Murkowski, Tillis, Curtis still pressing for a congressional vote. If Trump simply ignores the deadline without invoking the 30-day notice, a constitutional confrontation is possible.
Murkowski AUMF introduction imminent — shifts debate to authorization with conditions. 3 R crossovers May 13. "Project Freedom" rebranding disputed. $29B confirmed cost. Wicker hearing this week.
DHS shutdown ENDED after 76 days — P.L. 119-85 signed April 30. The $10B rainy day emergency fund is depleted by end of this week — 270,000 workers including Secret Service agents face missed paychecks. The WHCD shooting has put the Secret Service funding crisis in stark relief. Non-ICE/CBP agencies funded through Sept. 30. ICE/CBP on reconciliation track — Bacon and swing-district Republicans pressing Johnson; and reconciliation for ICE/CBP (still needs House to adopt S.Con.Res. 33). Johnson has still not brought the Senate bill to the floor. Rep. Roy wants the reconciliation bill to include a "secure ballroom on White House grounds" and other non-DHS items.
Shutdown ended Apr 30. ICE/CBP reconciliation bill due May 15. Final bill → June 1 target.
Weeks ahead
Reconciliation 2.0 — ICE & Border Patrol Funding
Senate adopted S.Con.Res. 33 50–48 April 23. House Rules Committee had the resolution in its package Monday night but adjourned without acting. Rules reconvening today. House Budget Chair Arrington pushing to expand scope. Conservative Rep. Roy wants to add "secure ballroom on White House grounds," SAVE Act, transgender/abortion funding restrictions, and a third reconciliation bill. If House amends the resolution, it returns to Senate for another vote-a-rama. Committees have until May 15 to draft the actual bill once resolution is adopted. Trump's June 1 target is slipping.
House Rules must act this week. Expansion demands vs. tight timeline. June 1 target now in doubt.
Coming months
Iran AUMF / Supplemental Defense Funding
U.S. military operations against Iran are approaching the 60-day War Powers Act threshold. Some Republicans (Hawley, Tillis) are calling for a formal AUMF. Democrats are pushing for a vote to define the scope of operations. Pentagon has signaled a supplemental funding request is coming — potentially $200B+. No formal AUMF introduced yet.
Politically explosive; bipartisan discomfort growing as conflict extends.
Coming months
FY2027 Appropriations & Budget Process
The new fiscal year begins October 1, 2026. Budget hearings are underway this week (OMB Director Vought testifying April 16). The Administration is requesting $1.15 trillion in base defense spending plus $350B in supplemental defense reconciliation. The FY2026 shutdown history makes timely FY2027 passage a long shot — another continuing resolution or shutdown is a realistic possibility.
Fiscal year deadline: October 1, 2026.
Coming months
"One Big Beautiful Bill" — Senate Action
The House passed H.R. 1 (the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act") in May 2025 by 215–214. It encompasses tax cuts (~$4.5T over 10 years extending TCJA provisions), Medicaid work requirements, SNAP changes, border security funding, and a $4T debt limit increase. The Senate is now working through it under reconciliation rules with extensive amendment debates. Trump demanded passage by June 1.
Senate passage on a razor-thin timeline; internal GOP divisions over Medicaid cuts remain.
Later in session
Debt Ceiling
H.R. 1 includes a $4 trillion debt limit increase (from $36.1T to $40.1T). If the bill passes, this buys runway through roughly late 2026 or early 2027. If it stalls, the debt ceiling becomes a separate crisis point — Treasury has been using extraordinary measures since early 2025. CBO projects the current ceiling could be reached as early as fall 2026.
Deadline contingent on H.R. 1 passage; independent crisis possible if reconciliation stalls.
Ongoing
SAVE America Act (Voter ID)
Senate Democrats are filibustering this House-passed voter ID bill. Republicans lack 60 votes for cloture and Majority Leader Thune has declined to change Senate rules. The bill is effectively stalled but Republicans are continuing floor debate for political messaging ahead of the 2026 midterms. Passage considered highly unlikely without a rules change.
More a campaign issue than a legislative one at this point.
Fall 2026
2026 Midterm Elections — Session Deadline
The 119th Congress ends January 3, 2027. All bills not enacted by that date expire. The November 2026 midterms will determine the composition of the 120th Congress. Republicans currently hold a narrow House majority (218–214) and a 53–47 Senate majority. Any bills not passed before election-year recess schedules shrink the legislative calendar significantly.
Effective legislative window closes by ~September 2026 as campaign season dominates.
U.S. House of Representatives
Majority Leader: Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA) · Speaker: Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA)
H.R. 7567 — Passed House
Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 — Passed House
✓ Passed House · Senate Agriculture timeline unclear · Conference ahead
The House passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 last week — the first 5-year farm bill in nearly a decade. Bipartisan origins (7 Democrats voted yes in committee) but sharp Democratic floor opposition to SNAP cuts described as the largest in U.S. history. The bill includes a pesticide liability shield (glyphosate provision drew sharp criticism from Rep. McGovern), E15 ethanol year-round sales, commodity support updates, and conservation program changes. Eyes now move to the Senate, where the timeline for a Senate Agriculture Committee markup of its own version remains unclear. The two chambers will need a conference to reconcile differences. September 30 farm bill extension expiration remains the backstop.
FY2027 Appropriations — Mil-Con/VA
Military Construction and Veterans Affairs — FY2027 · Floor vote this week
First FY2027 floor vote · Sept. 30 deadline for all 12
The House is expected to vote on the FY2027 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill this week — the first floor vote of the FY2027 cycle. Military construction and VA are traditionally the least controversial starting point for the appropriations process. Senate appropriations markups are planned for after July 4. House THUD subcommittee markup scheduled July 14. All 12 bills must pass by September 30 to avoid another government shutdown.
Reconciliation — Senate vote today
ICE/CBP Reconciliation Bill — Senate Vote-A-Rama Today · House Ready July 2
⚠ Senate vote-a-rama today · Tillis may vote no · House ready July 2
The Senate is holding its vote-a-rama today. If the bill passes the Senate, it moves to the House — where Johnson has signaled readiness for a floor vote "as soon as July 2," with a July 4 goal for Trump's signature. The House will face its own Byrd Rule-like dynamics as it considers whether to accept the Senate version cleanly or amend it (which would send it back to the Senate). House conservatives who wanted to expand the bill (Rep. Self's Iran war funding push) will be watching the Senate text closely.
FISA — June 12 · 25 days
FISA Section 702 — 3-Year Deal Negotiations · June 12 Expiration
⚠ 25 days · CBDC divide · Effective deadline ~June 9
With 25 days until the June 12 expiration, the effective deal deadline under the 72-hour posting rule is approximately June 9. The CBDC standoff remains unresolved. Johnson faces the same razor-thin margin challenge on any FISA rule vote. House moderates are seeking a warrant-requirement compromise; privacy hawks are demanding both warrant requirement and CBDC ban. Senate needs at least 7 Democratic votes for cloture. Intelligence officials are privately warning that another lapse would be particularly damaging given ongoing "Project Freedom" operations in the Strait of Hormuz.
VRA — Callais hearing today
Senate Judiciary — "Enforcing Callais" Hearing · Implementing SCOTUS VRA Ruling
Hearing today · Louisiana primary disruption · AL/TN special sessions
The Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on the Constitution is holding the first formal congressional hearing on implementing the Louisiana v. Callais decision today. Republicans are expected to frame the hearing around constitutional compliance; Democrats will argue the ruling guts voting rights protections. Louisiana's attempt to delay its May 16 primary faced immediate legal challenges; early ballots had already been cast. Alabama and Tennessee are in special legislative sessions to redraw congressional maps. Up to 19 additional Republican-favoring House seats could result from new maps drawn across the country.
U.S. Senate
Majority Leader: Sen. John Thune (R-SD) · Minority Leader: Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY)
Reconciliation — vote-a-rama TODAY
ICE/CBP Reconciliation Vote-A-Rama — $72B · Tillis may vote no · Final vote tonight
⚠ Vote-a-rama underway · Tillis no = 50–50 tie · VP Vance breaks · Ballroom Byrd fight
The Senate's second vote-a-rama of the session is underway today. The $72B reconciliation bill ($38B ICE + $22.57B CBP through FY2029) faces a precarious vote count. Tillis has said he will not vote for the bill, citing its impact on Medicaid and food assistance. If Tillis votes no and all Democrats vote no: 50–50 tie requiring VP Vance to break the tie. If Collins or Murkowski also votes no: fails. Democrats are forcing dozens of amendment votes targeting the $1B ballroom security provision (Byrd Rule challenge), Medicaid cuts, and food assistance reductions. Schumer: Democrats "will make Republicans answer for every dollar diverted from American families." Graham is racing to hold the Republican caucus together.
Senate Armed Services — Navy hearing
Senate Armed Services — FY2027 Navy Posture Hearing · Closed + Open Sessions
Closed 9:30 a.m. · Open ~11:00 a.m. · Iran war context
Senate Armed Services is holding a closed hearing at 9:30 a.m. on FY2027 Navy posture, followed by an open public session at approximately 11:00 a.m. The Navy hearing is particularly significant given the ongoing Operation Epic Fury / Project Freedom naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. Navy Secretary Hung Cao (confirmed earlier this session after Phelan's resignation) is expected to testify. Wicker's planned public hearing specifically on Operation Epic Fury is also expected this week — the first public congressional hearing on the Iran conflict.
AUMF — Murkowski · Imminent
Murkowski Iran AUMF — Introduction Expected This Week
Bipartisan authorization bill · Shifts war debate · White House has not responded
Murkowski's AUMF is expected to be formally introduced this week. Rather than voting to end the war (as Democrats have tried eight times now), an AUMF would authorize it with conditions — a defined mission, congressional oversight requirements, reporting mandates, and likely a sunset clause. This approach could attract moderate Republicans uncomfortable with both voting against the war and allowing it to continue indefinitely without congressional authorization. The White House has not publicly responded to the AUMF announcement. Note: Tillis — who is voting no on the reconciliation bill today — has been one of the senators most vocal about needing a "credible plan" on Iran. His posture on AUMF is worth watching closely.
FY2027 — multiple hearings
FY2027 Appropriations — Labor, DOJ, Army, Transportation Hearings This Week
Multiple subcommittees · Sept. 30 deadline · Markups after July 4
A heavy FY2027 appropriations hearing day across multiple Senate subcommittees. The Labor/HHS/Education hearing covers Medicaid and food assistance budgets — particularly relevant given today's reconciliation vote-a-rama and Tillis's Medicaid concerns. The Commerce-Justice-Science hearing covers DOJ, FBI, and the newly confirmed ATF Director Cekada's first budget appearance before the Senate. Senate Appropriations Chair Collins and Vice Chair Murray are making progress on 302(b) topline funding levels, with markups planned for after the July 4 recess.
📎 Primary Sources & Reference Links
live.house.govReal-time House floor activity, votes & transcript
Senate Floor ActivityDaily Senate floor log & webcast
House Majority Leader ScheduleOfficial weekly House floor schedule
Senate Daily PressDay-by-day Senate schedule & activity log
GovTrack.usBill tracker, alerts, status & voting records
Congress.govOfficial Library of Congress bill database
House Clerk Floor SummaryOfficial House floor activity summary
Senate Active LegislationCurrently active Senate bills & resolutions
Committee ScheduleWeekly House & Senate committee hearings
FastDemocracyProfessional bill tracking & AI transcripts
May 2026
May 15
Passed House
Passed
5-year farm bill passed the House last week. Bipartisan origins (7 Democrats voted yes in committee) but sharp floor opposition to SNAP cuts ($187B over 10 years) and pesticide liability shield. Includes E15 ethanol. Now awaiting Senate action — Senate Agriculture timeline unclear. Needs 60 votes in Senate.
May 15
Announced
AUMF coming
Murkowski announces Iran AUMF introduction — pivots war debate to authorization with conditions
Sen. Murkowski announced she will introduce an Authorization for Use of Military Force for the Iran conflict when Congress returns. Working with several colleagues. Shifts debate from "stop the war" to "authorize with congressional conditions and oversight." Potential co-sponsors: Collins, Tillis, Curtis, Paul.
May 15
Diplomatic
Tariffs lifted
Trump lifts UK tariffs following King Charles joint address · First major tariff rollback
Following King Charles III's historic joint address to Congress Wednesday, Trump announced he is lifting tariffs on UK goods — the first significant tariff rollback of his second term. Charles proposed a toast to Trump. UK-US trade relationship restored.
May 14
Renamed
Renamed
Iran conflict renamed "Project Freedom" · Rubio: "Operation Epic Fury is over"
Rubio announced new phase focused on opening Strait of Hormuz. Legal strategy to reset War Powers Act clock. Democrats and 3 Republican senators rejected rebranding. Iran responding with strikes on Strait transit vessels. War cost confirmed at $29B Thursday.
May 14
Hearing
$29B confirmed
Hegseth + Gen. Caine — Pentagon $1.5T FY2027 Budget Request · Iran war cost $29B
Back-to-back testimony before House and Senate Appropriations. $1.5T FY2027 request = 42% increase. Iran war cost confirmed $29B (internal estimates $50B+). Cole warned reconciliation for war funding "creates cliffs." Some Republicans pushing for third reconciliation bill for Iran defense spending.
May 14
Advanced
Advanced committee
Digital Asset Market Structure Legislation — Advanced Senate Banking Committee
Bipartisan crypto market structure bill cleared Senate Banking Committee Thursday. Establishes SEC/CFTC jurisdiction framework for digital assets. Senate floor timing TBD.
May 13
Confirmed
54–45
Kevin Warsh — Federal Reserve Chair · Confirmed 54–45 · Closest in modern era
Fetterman only Democratic crossover. 17th Fed chair of the modern banking era. First new Fed chair since 2018. Powell stays on as Fed governor. First FOMC meeting as chair: June 16–17. Warsh plans "regime change" at Fed — tighter Treasury coordination, smaller balance sheet.
May 13
Advanced
3 R crossovers
S.J.Res. 163 — Iran War Powers Resolution · 3 Republican crossovers for first time
Murkowski (R-AK), Collins (R-ME), and Rand Paul (R-KY) voted to advance — first time three Republicans crossed over in any of seven Iran war votes. Murkowski voting yes for the first time. Coalition now ~50 votes — one short of majority if Fetterman votes no. Tillis and Curtis have expressed concern. White House dismissed vote.
May 12
Confirmed
51–45
Kevin Warsh — Federal Reserve Board of Governors · Confirmed 51–45
Largely party-line; Fetterman (D-PA) the only Democratic crossover. 14-year term as Fed governor confirmed. Chair vote expected Wednesday. Powell's chair term expires Friday. Warsh plans "regime change" at the Fed — tighter Treasury coordination, smaller balance sheet, lower rates. Iran war oil price surge complicates the policy environment.
May 11
Cloture invoked
Cloture invoked
Kevin Warsh — Federal Reserve Chair Nominee · Cloture invoked Mon
Senate invoked cloture on Warsh nomination Monday evening. Confirmation vote expected Wednesday. Powell's term has expired; Warsh would immediately become Fed chair upon confirmation.
May 11
Confirmed
49 confirmed
49 Trump Executive Branch Nominees Confirmed En Bloc
Senate confirmed 49 nominees in a single en bloc vote via S.Res. approval. Part of Thune's ongoing strategy to accelerate Trump administration staffing. Democrats objected but could not block.
May 8
Released
Text released
ICE/CBP Reconciliation Bill Text Released — $72B · Through FY2029
Senate Judiciary and Homeland Security Committees released full text of the $72B reconciliation bill funding ICE and Border Patrol through fiscal year 2029. Senate Judiciary business meeting to formally consider this week ahead of May 15 reporting deadline.
May 7
Escalation
Tanker attacked
U.S. Forces Attack Iranian-Flagged Tanker · Naval Blockade Enforcement
U.S. military attacked an Iranian-flagged tanker attempting to breach the Strait of Hormuz naval blockade — most significant military action since April 7 ceasefire. White House had declared hostilities "terminated" May 1. Iran revealed peace demands Trump rejected. Macron called for Strait reopening.
May 1
WH Letter
Disputed
White House declares Iran hostilities "terminated" · War Powers clock reset disputed
White House sent formal letter to Congress declaring hostilities "terminated" even as naval blockade continues. Administration argues April 7 ceasefire pauses the 60-day clock. Democrats and 4 Republican senators rejected the framing. War Powers confrontation deferred.
Apr 30
SCOTUS
6–3
Louisiana v. Callais — Supreme Court 6–3 · VRA Section 2 gutted
Conservative supermajority struck down Louisiana's 2nd majority-Black congressional district. Effectively nullifies VRA Section 2 majority-minority district requirements. Florida immediately enacted new gerrymander. Up to 19 House seats could shift R by 2028. Kagan dissent called it "setting back racial equality in electoral opportunity."
May 3
Indictment
Indicted
Former FBI Director James Comey — Second Indictment
Indicted for posting a photo of seashells on a beach that prosecutors said amounted to a threat against President Trump. Comey denied the charge. Second indictment of Comey this session. Democrats called it politically motivated.
April 2026
Apr 30
Enacted
Signed
P.L. 119-85 — DHS Appropriations (Non-ICE/CBP) · 76-day shutdown ended
House passed by voice vote; Trump signed Thursday afternoon. Funds TSA, Secret Service, Coast Guard, FEMA, CISA, and all non-immigration DHS agencies through Sept. 30. Longest agency-level shutdown in U.S. history ended. ICE/CBP on reconciliation track.
Apr 30
Enacted
Signed
P.L. 119-86 — FISA Section 702 45-Day Extension (3rd short-term patch)
Senate stripped CBDC ban, passed unanimously. House passed 261–111. Trump signed. New expiration: ~June 15. Third FISA short-term patch this session (Apr 18, Apr 30). 3-year deal still unresolved.
Apr 29
Confirmed
59–39
Robert Cekada — ATF Director · Confirmed 59–39
Bipartisan: 7 Democratic caucus members voted yes. First ATF director confirmed by a Republican president. Announced 34 regulatory reforms same day, including rescission of Biden-era pistol brace rule.
Apr 29
Passed House
235–191
Passed House 235–191. 42 Democrats yes, 22 Republicans no. CBDC ban attached dead on arrival in Senate — 45-day extension likely instead. FISA expires tonight.
Apr 29
Adopted
215–211
House adopted 215–211 party-line. Both chambers now adopted — reconciliation formally launched. Senate committees write ICE/CBP funding bill by May 15.
Apr 29
Rule passed
216–210
H.Res. 1224 — Rule for FISA + Farm Bill + Reconciliation
Rule passed 216–210 after 2+ hours open. Luna went no → present → yes after SAVE Act commitment. Rep. McGovern: "S---show."
Apr 29
Joint Address
Joint session
King Charles III — Address to Joint Session of Congress
First British monarch to address Congress since 1991. Came amid UK-US tariff tensions. Johnson presided.
Apr 27
Cloture invoked
Cloture invoked
Robert Cekada — ATF Director · Cloture invoked Mon
Cloture invoked on nomination. Confirmation vote scheduled today Apr 28. Expected party-line confirmation.
Apr 25
Shooting
1 agent wounded
White House Correspondents' Dinner Shooting — Washington Hilton
Cole Tomas Allen fired shots at security screening area outside WHCD. One Secret Service agent struck in vest, expected to recover. Trump, Vance, Cabinet evacuated. Allen arrested; charged with attempted assassination of the President. Manifesto cited "Friendly Federal Assassin." Galvanized DHS funding urgency.
Apr 23
Passed House
Passed
Geothermal energy bill passed the House Thursday. Waives NEPA review for certain federal land geothermal activities. Bipartisan support. Sent to Senate.
Apr 23
Cloture filed
Cloture filed
Thune filed cloture on motion to proceed to S. 4344 immediately after budget resolution passed. Cloture vote possible as early as Monday Apr 27. Senate's FISA fallback now formally in motion.
Adopted 50–48 at ~3:30 a.m. after 5-hour vote-a-rama. Murkowski and Rand Paul voted against with all Democrats. Graham amendment (violent criminal deportation) passed 98–0. All Democratic policy amendments failed. Now heads to House for adoption.
Apr 22
Failed
46–51
Sponsored by Sen. Baldwin (D-WI). Failed 46–51. Fetterman (D) voted no; Paul (R) voted yes — consistent with all prior votes. Grassley, McCormick, Warner absent. War Powers Act 60-day deadline arrives next week.
Senate voted 52–46 on strict party lines to proceed to the FY2026 budget resolution for ICE/CBP reconciliation. Instructs committees to draft $70B in immigration enforcement funding by May 15. Vote-a-rama expected Wed or Thu.
Apr 21
Resigned
Effective 1:30 p.m.
Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) — Resigned
Resigned at 1:30 p.m., minutes before her House Ethics Committee sanctions hearing. Third member to resign in under two weeks (after Swalwell D-CA and Gonzales R-TX last week). House now 218R–213D, 4 open seats.
Andrew B. Davis — U.S. District Judge, W.D. Texas
Confirmed 47–46. Collins (R) voted no. Seven senators not voting: Daines, Fetterman, Grassley, Murkowski, Risch, Sheehy, Warner. Third Trump W.D. Texas judge confirmed this session.
Apr 20
On Calendar
Rule XIV
Placed on Senate Calendar via Rule XIV by Majority Leader Thune. Senate formally positioned to take lead on longer-term FISA deal before April 30 deadline.
Apr 20
Passed
Voice vote
S.Res. 681 — Resolution honoring Chuck Norris
Adopted by voice vote. Memorial resolution for the late actor and martial artist.
Apr 18
Enacted
Signed
Signed into law Saturday by President Trump. Extends FISA Section 702 through April 30. Followed three failed House floor votes (18-month, 5-year, rule) Thursday night. Both chambers passed by unanimous consent.
Apr 16
Failed
47–52
Motion to discharge from Senate Foreign Relations Committee failed. Democrats could not win Republican crossover votes needed to force the bill to the floor.
Apr 16
Passed Senate
50–49
Passed Senate 50–49. Collins and Tillis (R) voted against; Hawley not voting. Sent to House. Would reverse Biden-era withdrawal of Iron Range federal lands from mining.
Apr 16
Cloture invoked
49–48
Andrew B. Davis — U.S. District Judge, W.D. Texas
Cloture invoked 49–48 on Trump judicial nominee. Confirmation vote scheduled no earlier than Monday April 20.
Apr 15
Failed
36–63
Motion to discharge from Foreign Relations Committee failed. Would have directed disapproval of U.S. arms sales to Israel.
Apr 15
Passed
51–49
Congressional Review Act disapproval of Biden-era Bureau of Land Management withdrawal of federal lands in Cook, Lake & St. Louis Counties, MN. Passed Senate; sent to House.
Apr 14
Confirmed
Party-line
John Thomas Shepherd — U.S. District Judge, W.D. Arkansas
Trump judicial nominee confirmed by Senate. Part of ongoing judicial confirmation pipeline.
Apr 13
Enacted
Signed
Signed April 13, 2026. Addresses small business innovation programs and economic security provisions.
Apr 8
Ceasefire
—
Iran–U.S. Ceasefire Takes Effect (Operation Epic Fury)
After 40 days of combat operations, a ceasefire brokered by Pakistan took effect. U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports imposed Apr 13 after peace talks in Islamabad collapsed. No AUMF passed by Congress.
March 2026
Mar 24
Confirmed
—
Markwayne Mullin — Secretary of Homeland Security
Sen. Mullin (R-OK) confirmed as DHS Secretary and resigned from Senate. Alan Armstrong appointed to fill his seat.
Mar 12
Passed Senate
82–11
Bipartisan housing supply bill passed Senate 82–11 with substitute amendment (S.Amdt. 4308). Returned to House with changes; House has not yet acted on Senate version.
February 2026
Feb 28
Military
No AUMF
Operation Epic Fury Launched — U.S.–Israel Strikes on Iran
Joint U.S.–Israeli military operation commenced. Supreme Leader Khamenei killed in opening strikes. Iran responded with missile/drone attacks; closed Strait of Hormuz. No congressional AUMF authorized. 40-day campaign until Apr 8 ceasefire.
Feb 25
Passed House
218–213
Requires documentary proof of citizenship to register for federal elections; photo ID to vote. Passed House 218–213. Currently stalled in Senate filibuster.
Feb 18
Enacted
Signed
Establishes a congressional time capsule for the U.S. 250th anniversary in 2026.
Feb 18
Enacted
Signed
Congressional Review Act disapproval of D.C. Council's income and franchise tax conformity amendment.
Feb 14
Shutdown
Day 75
Partial DHS Shutdown Begins — Ongoing
DHS partial shutdown began when two-week CR expired. Democrats blocked DHS funding demanding ICE/CBP reform after CBP killing of Alex Pretti (Jan 24). ICE, CBP, TSA, FEMA, Secret Service among affected agencies. Shutdown ongoing as of April 16.
Feb 10
Enacted
Signed
Requires federal agencies to cross-check payment records against the Social Security death master file to eliminate improper payments to deceased individuals.
Feb 9
Passed House
Bipartisan
Bipartisan housing supply bill passed House. Includes zoning reform incentives, FHA loan limit increases, streamlined environmental reviews.
Feb 6
Enacted
Signed
Reforms bankruptcy court administrative procedures and fee structures.
Feb 3
Enacted
Signed
Full-year FY2026 appropriations for all departments except DHS. Ended the 4-day general shutdown (Jan 31–Feb 3). DHS excluded due to Democratic objections over ICE/CBP reform.
Feb 3
Shutdown ends
—
First 2026 Shutdown Ends (4 days — Jan 31–Feb 3)
General government shutdown ended when P.L. 119-75 was signed. Shutdown caused by delay approving full-year appropriations package; DHS excluded and placed on 2-week CR.
January 2026
Jan 31
Shutdown
4 days
First 2026 General Government Shutdown Begins
Partial shutdown began when FY2025 continuing resolution expired. Affected approximately half of federal departments. Lasted 4 days until Feb 3 passage of Consolidated Appropriations Act.
Jan 23
Enacted
Signed
Signed Jan 23, 2026. Part of the FY2026 appropriations package covering Commerce, Justice, Science (including NASA/NSF), Energy and Water, and Interior/Environment departments.
Jan 22
Passed House
341–88 / 220–207
Final FY2026 Appropriations Package — 3 Bills
House passed final three FY2026 spending bills (Transportation/HUD 341–88; DHS 220–207; others) completing the House's work on annual appropriations. Senate Democrats subsequently blocked DHS portion.
Jan 20
Enacted
Signed
Amends title 38 to improve VA housing assistance programs for disabled veterans.
Jan 8
Veto sustained
Override failed
Veto Override Attempts Fail — H.R. 504 & H.R. 131
House failed to override two Biden-era vetoes: Miccosukee Reserved Area Amendments Act (H.R. 504) and Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit Act (H.R. 131). Both vetoes sustained; bills died.
Jan 5
Session opens
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119th Congress 2nd Session Convenes
Second session of the 119th Congress begins. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) resigned same day. Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-CA) died Jan 6. Republican House majority: 218–214 at opening.