The 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 — produced by Lens and Mix, LLC using AI-assisted research, updated on days Congress is in session.
This is an experimental, strictly non-partisan publication. It reports legislative activity across both parties as a factual record, without commentary or advocacy. Because it is AI-assisted, it may contain errors and should not be treated as an official or definitive legislative record — always verify critical details against official sources such as Congress.gov, the Senate Daily Digest, and the House Majority Leader's schedule.
Not affiliated with the U.S. Congress, any federal agency, or any political party. Questions, corrections, or suggestions are welcome: CongSum@LensAndMix.com
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, June 1, 2026
Week of June 1 · Session Day 30 · Congress returns today
Week context: Congress returns today to what The Hill describes as "déjà vu" — the same two fights that consumed last week, now with a more volatile backdrop. The reconciliation vote-a-rama resumes with the $1.776 billion anti-weaponization fund still unresolved. FISA has 11 days to expiration with an effective deal deadline of approximately June 9. And the political ground shifted dramatically during recess: Ken Paxton defeated John Cornyn in a blowout on May 26, ending Cornyn's 35-year electoral dominance in Texas and delivering a sharp rebuke to Senate Republican leadership. Paxton will now face Democrat James Talarico in November. One GOP strategist called Trump's Paxton endorsement "a $100M mistake." Senate Republicans are returning to a caucus that is simultaneously more fractured and more Trump-loyal than when they left. Murkowski is expected to introduce her Iran AUMF this week. Both deadlines — reconciliation and FISA — converge in the next ten days.
🔄 What changed during recess (May 22 – June 1):
- Paxton defeats Cornyn in blowout — May 26: Texas AG Ken Paxton defeated three-term incumbent Sen. John Cornyn shortly after 8 p.m. on May 26, with the AP calling the race about an hour after polls closed. The margin was described as a blowout — far wider than pre-election polls suggested. Trump endorsed Paxton; Thune, McConnell, and most of Senate Republican leadership backed Cornyn. The result reverberates nationally: it is the most significant Trump-vs.-establishment Republican result of the 2026 cycle, a signal of Trump's enduring grip on the GOP base, and a direct rebuke to the Senate caucus that Paxton will now need to work alongside if he wins the general election in November. Paxton told CNN he is "ready to unite" with Washington Republicans. One GOP strategist: "Trump made a $100M mistake" backing Paxton. Pence: GOP "lost our way." Paxton faces Democrat James Talarico in November in what polling suggests will be a competitive race.
- Reconciliation — anti-weaponization fund still unresolved: Senate Republicans departed Washington without resolving the $1.776B anti-weaponization fund dispute. Thune spent the recess trying to broker a compromise — either removing the fund entirely, modifying it to exclude Jan. 6 rioters explicitly, or moving it to a third reconciliation bill. No public resolution announced as of this morning. The vote-a-rama resumes this week; the final vote could come as early as today if Thune has secured the votes.
- FISA — 11 days to June 12: Privacy hawks continued pressing for a warrant requirement and CBDC ban over recess. No deal framework announced. The effective deadline under the 72-hour posting rule is approximately June 9 — eight days away. Intelligence officials are warning that a lapse would damage Project Freedom Strait operations. A fourth short-term extension remains the last resort.
- Murkowski AUMF — expected this week: The Iran AUMF was not introduced before recess. Introduction expected this week on Congress's return. Collins, Tillis, and Curtis remain potential co-sponsors. The White House has still not publicly responded.
- California primaries — June 2: Several competitive California House primaries are tomorrow (June 2), including races where incumbents are facing well-funded challengers. Results will shape the November battlefield for the House majority.
🗓 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)
FISA — June 9 effective deadline
FISA Section 702 — 3-Year Deal · House Must Pass · 11 Days to Expiry
⚠ 11 days · House needs near-unanimous GOP · CBDC + warrant divide persists
Johnson must rally House conservatives around a FISA deal this week. Privacy hawks from both parties are pressing for a warrant requirement. House conservatives are pressing for the CBDC ban. The Senate cannot pass a permanent CBDC ban — it needs 60 votes and most Democrats won't support it. The most promising pathway: move the CBDC ban to the third reconciliation bill (where it only needs 51 votes) and pass a clean FISA extension without it. Whether Johnson can sell that to House conservatives — who have repeatedly demanded CBDC as the price of their FISA support — is the central question. Intel officials are warning of damage to Project Freedom signals intelligence if FISA lapses again.
Reconciliation — House ready July 2
Reconciliation — Senate Must Pass First · House Ready July 2 · Headwinds Growing
⚠ Norman + Massie already nos · Senate changes may cost more House votes · July 4 goal nearly impossible
The House cannot act until the Senate passes the bill. Johnson signaled readiness for a July 2 floor vote — but Norman and Massie are already nos, and Rep. Valadao (R-CA, competitive seat) has publicly said he will not support cuts to Medicaid. Any Senate modifications to address Tillis's Medicaid concerns may cost additional House votes from conservatives who want steeper cuts. The anti-weaponization fund controversy may also cost House votes. July 4 signing goal is now effectively impossible — late July or August is more realistic if the Senate passes this week and the House takes it up July 2.
CA primaries — tomorrow June 2
California Primary Elections — Tuesday June 2 · Multiple Competitive House Races
Tomorrow · Multiple incumbents challenged · November battlefield implications
California holds its jungle primary elections tomorrow — the results will shape the November 2026 battleground for the House majority. Several incumbents face well-funded challengers. Democrats have been showing high enthusiasm in 2026 primaries nationally while Republicans are seeing lackluster turnout. The Paxton-Cornyn result reinforced that pattern — Paxton won with significantly fewer than a million votes in a state of 30 million. Rep. Al Green (D-TX), who has represented part of Houston for over 20 years, lost to fellow incumbent Rep. Julie Johnson in a primary driven by the Texas redistricting following the SCOTUS VRA ruling.
FY2027 appropriations
FY2027 Appropriations — Markups After July 4 · Sept. 30 Deadline
Collins-Murray 302(b) progress · House THUD markup July 14 · Full committee July 17
The FY2027 appropriations process continues in the background amid the reconciliation and FISA crises. Collins and Murray are making progress on 302(b) topline funding agreements. House Appropriations Chair Cole has scheduled the THUD subcommittee markup for July 14. All 12 spending bills must pass by September 30. The $1.5T Pentagon FY2027 request (42% above FY2026, driven partly by Iran war costs) will dominate defense subcommittee negotiations when markups begin.
U.S. Senate
Majority Leader: Sen. John Thune (R-SD) · Minority Leader: Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) · Returns today
Reconciliation — resumes today
ICE/CBP Reconciliation Bill — $72B · Vote-A-Rama Resumes · Anti-Weaponization Fund Unresolved
⚠ Vote-a-rama resumes today · Anti-weaponization fund $1.776B still unresolved · Tillis key vote
The vote-a-rama resumes today after last week's recess-without-a-vote embarrassment. Thune spent the recess trying to broker a compromise on the $1.776B anti-weaponization fund — either removing it, modifying it to explicitly exclude Jan. 6 rioters, or moving it to a third reconciliation bill. No public resolution has been announced as of this morning. The political backdrop has shifted: Paxton's blowout win over Cornyn signals that Trump's grip on the Republican base remains overwhelming, which may make it harder for Tillis and Collins to hold out against a bill Trump wants. But it may also embolden conservative senators to demand more — not less — in the bill. Thune needs 50 votes (with Vance breaking a tie) or 51 outright. Collins, Tillis, and Paul are all still potential no votes. If the anti-weaponization fund is resolved, the bill could pass this week.
Paxton defeats Cornyn — May 26
Ken Paxton Defeats John Cornyn in Texas Blowout · Senate Caucus Shaken
Watershed moment · Thune embarrassed · Paxton faces Talarico in Nov. · Filibuster implications
Paxton's win ended over three decades of Cornyn's electoral dominance and will reverberate nationally. Trump's endorsement proved decisive. Cornyn was a cosponsor of the bill to end the filibuster and indicated openness to ditching it — but Paxton pushed the idea more aggressively, and Trump chose to back him. The filibuster implication is significant: Paxton, if elected in November, would bring a louder, more aggressive anti-filibuster voice into the caucus. Paxton told CNN he wanted to "cooperate" with Washington Republicans and that he is "ready to unite." One GOP strategist: "Trump made a $100M mistake." Pence: GOP "lost our way." Democrats see a real pickup opportunity in Texas — Talarico is well-funded and the state is trending more competitive.
FISA — June 12 · 11 days
FISA Section 702 — 3-Year Deal · June 12 Expiration · 11 Days
⚠ 11 days · Effective deadline ~June 9 · CBDC + warrant divide · Intel officials warning
Privacy hawks have continued to press for a warrant requirement and a permanent CBDC ban in any long-term FISA extension. No deal framework was announced over recess. The effective deadline is approximately June 9 — eight days from today. Intelligence officials are warning privately that a lapse would damage Project Freedom Strait operations in the Strait of Hormuz. Thune and Johnson must simultaneously manage the reconciliation final vote this week AND produce a FISA deal before June 9. A fourth short-term extension patch remains the last resort but would be a significant political embarrassment.
AUMF — Murkowski · this week
Murkowski Iran AUMF — Introduction Expected This Week
Introduction expected · Collins + Tillis + Curtis potential co-sponsors · White House silent
Murkowski's AUMF will be introduced this week. The AUMF approach — authorizing the Iran war with conditions rather than trying to stop it — remains the most consequential potential bipartisan development in the war debate. Collins, Tillis, and Curtis are the most likely co-sponsors. The White House has not publicly responded despite Murkowski's announcement weeks ago. The Paxton win adds an interesting dimension: Paxton ran partly on a more aggressive foreign policy accountability platform, and his win signals that the base wants results — not endless unauthorized war. If the AUMF attracts 10+ Republican co-sponsors, the political pressure on the White House becomes very difficult to ignore.
📎 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
June 2026
Jun 1
Returns
Returns
Congress returns from recess · Reconciliation vote-a-rama resumes · FISA 11 days
Both chambers return from one-week recess. Reconciliation vote-a-rama resumes with anti-weaponization fund still unresolved. FISA expires June 12 with effective deal deadline ~June 9. Murkowski AUMF expected this week.
May 2026
May 26
Primary result
Paxton wins
Ken Paxton defeats John Cornyn in Texas Senate GOP runoff — blowout
AP called race ~8 p.m. Paxton wins in blowout, ending Cornyn's 35-year electoral dominance. Trump endorsed Paxton; Thune/McConnell backed Cornyn. One GOP strategist: "Trump made a $100M mistake." Pence: GOP "lost our way." Paxton faces Democrat Talarico in November. Filibuster abolition a key Paxton campaign issue.
May 21
Stalled
Stalled
ICE/CBP Reconciliation Bill — $72B · Stalled · $1.8B anti-weaponization fund broke GOP
Vote-a-rama began but bill did not pass Thursday. New flashpoint: $1.8B "anti-weaponization fund" allowing DOJ to compensate those "wronged" by federal law enforcement — including potentially Jan. 6 rioters per VP Vance. Tillis: "stupid on stilts." Senate adjourned for recess. Vote expected week of June 1. June 1 Trump deadline missed. SAVE Act amendment failed 48–50 during vote-a-rama.
May 20
Markup completed
Markup done
Senate Budget Committee markup completed — Combines Homeland Security + Judiciary bills
Budget Committee completed its largely procedural markup combining the two committee reconciliation bills into one package. Floor vote-a-rama begins Thursday. Ballroom provision ($1B) stripped after parliamentarian ruling. CBO: $71.7B deficit impact over 2026–2035.
May 19
Markup completed
Markup done
Senate Judiciary Committee markup completed · Reconciliation ICE/CBP bill
Judiciary Committee completed its markup of the $30.73B ICE portion of the reconciliation bill. Budget Committee markup today (Wed). CBO estimates combined deficit impact $71.7B over 2026–2035. Floor vote-a-rama Thursday.
May 17
Ruled out
Ruled out
Senate Parliamentarian rules $1B White House ballroom security provision CANNOT be in reconciliation
Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough ruled Sat night that the ballroom provision spans multiple committee jurisdictions — cannot pass at simple-majority threshold. Six Republican senators had raised concerns. Graham says provision may go to a third reconciliation bill. Democrats to use as campaign messaging ("Ballroom Republicans").
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
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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.