Congressional Floor Summary

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.

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Congressional Floor Summary — June 2, 2026
119th Congress · 2nd Session
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
Tuesday, June 2, 2026 Week of June 1 · Session Day 31
Curated and produced by Lens and Mix, LLC using AI-assisted research · Independent non-partisan summary · Not an official government publication · Sourced from House Majority Leader, Senate Daily Press, Congress.gov, GovTrack.us, and current news reporting · For informational purposes only — verify all legislative status at official sources before acting on this information.
Actions ⚡ House Live Floor ⚡ Senate Floor 📊 GovTrack
Republican sponsor Democrat sponsor Bipartisan
Senate: Anti-weaponization fund DROPPED · Trump admin backed down Mon · Path clear for reconciliation
House: Returns Wed · First vote Wed · Johnson met Trump Mon on fund · Cassidy also lost primary
FISA expires June 12 · 10 days · Effective deadline ~June 9 · CBDC + warrant divide remains
Reconciliation final vote expected this week · CA primaries today · Iran War Powers vote coming
In session Urgent / deadline Context / note
Breaking — Monday June 1: The single biggest obstacle to the reconciliation bill collapsed Monday morning. The Trump administration backed down on the $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund — the DOJ announced it would abide by a federal court ruling temporarily blocking the fund pending litigation. Thune had called on the White House to abandon it earlier that morning; Johnson met with Trump in person. The result: Republican leaders in both chambers now say they are confident they can pass the $72 billion reconciliation bill as long as it remains narrowly focused on funding ICE and Border Patrol through 2029. The House returns Wednesday with its first vote scheduled. A Senate final vote is expected this week. FISA has 10 days to expiration. California primaries are today. And a new wrinkle: Sen. Cassidy (R-LA) also lost his primary to a Trump-endorsed challenger — a second incumbent toppled, adding to post-recess caucus volatility. Democrats have pledged to force more votes on the anti-weaponization fund even after the DOJ backed down, threatening to slow the vote-a-rama.
🔄 What changed since June 1:
  • Anti-weaponization fund DROPPED — Trump administration backs down Monday morning: Thune called on the White House to abandon the $1.776B anti-weaponization fund Monday morning. Shortly after, the DOJ announced it would abide by a federal court decision (Eastern District of Virginia) temporarily blocking the administration from setting up the fund pending further litigation. Johnson met with Trump at the White House Monday morning to discuss the fund. With the fund removed, Republican leaders in both chambers say they now have a path to pass the $72B reconciliation bill focused on ICE and CBP. Schumer: Democrats will still "force them to vote" and "launch a coordinated effort to kill the slush fund before one cent goes out the door." Democrats plan to offer amendments during the vote-a-rama targeting the fund and related provisions even after DOJ backed down.
  • Cassidy (R-LA) also lost his primary to a Trump-endorsed challenger: Sen. Bill Cassidy lost his Louisiana primary to a Trump-backed challenger — the second sitting Republican senator toppled in the 2026 cycle after Cornyn's defeat. Cassidy had voted to convict Trump at his second impeachment trial and has repeatedly bucked the administration. His loss, combined with Cornyn's, represents a sweeping purge of the Republican establishment by the Trump base. Two fewer establishment-aligned Republican senators will be in the caucus next Congress.
  • House returns Wednesday — first vote Wed: The House has been on standby while the Senate works out the reconciliation package. It returns Wednesday with its first vote scheduled that day. Johnson expects the House to take up the reconciliation bill "as soon as July 2."
  • FISA — 10 days to June 12: No deal announced over the weekend or Monday morning. Effective deadline ~June 9. The reconciliation path being clear may allow the CBDC ban to be moved to a third reconciliation bill — which would unlock a Senate-passable FISA deal. But the logistics are extremely tight.
  • California primaries today: California jungle primaries underway. Multiple competitive House races. Results will shape the November battlefield.
🗓 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.
119th Congress · 2nd Session · Currently before Congress
On the Floor — Week of May 11, 2026
Reconciliation STALLED Thu · $1.8B anti-weaponization fund broke GOP · Senate in recess · Vote expected week of June 1 · June 1 deadline MISSED
10
Days to FISA June 12 deadline
32
Days to July 4 Trump signature goal
H
U.S. House of Representatives
Majority Leader: Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA) · Speaker: Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) · Returns Wednesday
Reconciliation — House Wed
Reconciliation — House Returns Wed · Senate Final Vote Imminent · House Ready July 2 ⚠ Senate vote expected this week · House July 2 · Norman + Massie + Valadao all potential nos
R
House returns: Wednesday · First vote scheduled Wed Johnson: Met with Trump Mon on anti-weaponization fund · "Confident" with fund removed Risk: Norman + Massie + Valadao potential nos · Two more = fails
The House returns Wednesday with Johnson confident the bill can pass once the Senate acts. Johnson met with Trump on Monday morning to discuss removing the anti-weaponization fund, and leadership is now aligned. However, Norman and Massie are still nos, and Valadao has said he will not support Medicaid cuts. Any Senate modifications to address Tillis's Medicaid concerns will be scrutinized by House conservatives. Johnson needs near-unanimous Republican support — the same challenge he has faced on every major vote this session.
FISA — House side · June 9
FISA Section 702 — 3-Year Deal · June 9 Effective Deadline · 10 Days ⚠ 10 days · House needs near-unanimous GOP · CBDC demand vs. Senate reality
R
Effective deadline: ~June 9 · 7 days away (72-hour posting rule) Best path: CBDC ban → 3rd reconciliation bill · Clean FISA passes Senate Privacy hawks: Both parties pressing for warrant requirement on top of CBDC
The House returns Wednesday with seven days to the effective FISA deal deadline. Johnson must simultaneously manage the reconciliation final vote and produce a FISA deal in the same compressed week. The most promising path: if the CBDC ban is formally committed to the third reconciliation bill, House conservatives may accept a clean FISA extension without it. Privacy hawks from both parties are also pressing for a warrant requirement — a demand that could complicate a clean deal even without the CBDC obstacle. A fourth short-term extension patch is the last resort but politically embarrassing for a fourth time.
CA primaries — today
California Primary Elections — Today June 2 · Multiple Competitive House Races Today · Jungle primary · Top two advance · November battlefield implications
D
Format: Jungle primary · Top two vote-getters advance to November regardless of party Context: Democrats showing strong 2026 enthusiasm · Rep. Al Green (D-TX) already lost to redistricting House majority: Results shape the November battlefield for the 4-seat Republican margin
California holds its jungle primary elections today. Multiple competitive House races will determine which candidates advance to November. Democrats have shown strong enthusiasm nationally in 2026 primaries while Republicans have seen lackluster turnout — a trend that could put the House majority at risk if it persists through November. The Republican margin in the House is only four seats. California has historically been a key battleground for House control, with multiple districts rated as toss-ups heading into November.
3rd reconciliation bill
Third Reconciliation Bill — CBDC · Iran Defense · Tax Cuts · Anti-Weaponization Fund Discussions intensifying · Could unlock FISA if CBDC moves here · Summer/fall timeline
R
CBDC path: If moved here → unlocks clean FISA deal in Senate Anti-weaponization: Fund dropped from reconciliation 2.0 · May return in 3rd bill Other candidates: Iran defense supplemental ($200B+) · Tax cuts · Ballroom security
The third reconciliation bill is becoming an increasingly important planning vehicle. With the anti-weaponization fund dropped from reconciliation 2.0, it may return in a third bill. The CBDC ban — if moved here — would unlock the FISA 3-year deal by removing the Senate obstacle. Iran war defense spending ($200B+ Pentagon request), tax cuts, and the ballroom security provision are also candidates. The Congressional Budget Act limits reconciliation to three bills per fiscal year (spending, revenue, debt limit) — so the mechanics require careful planning. Thune is still focused on finishing reconciliation 2.0 first.
S
U.S. Senate
Majority Leader: Sen. John Thune (R-SD) · Minority Leader: Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY)
Reconciliation — vote imminent
ICE/CBP Reconciliation Bill — $72B · Anti-Weaponization Fund Dropped · Vote Expected This Week ⚠ Fund dropped Mon · Path clear · Final vote expected this week · Democrats still forcing votes
R
Fund status: DOJ complying with court order blocking fund · Trump admin backed down Mon GOP confidence: Thune + Johnson: "confident we can pass" with fund removed · Narrowly focused on ICE/CBP Democrats: Will still force amendment votes on fund · "Coordinated effort to kill the slush fund" Remaining risks: Tillis Medicaid concerns · Collins · Paul deficit concerns · Democrats slowing vote-a-rama
The path to passing the $72B reconciliation bill cleared dramatically Monday morning when the Trump administration backed down on the anti-weaponization fund. The DOJ announced compliance with a federal court ruling temporarily blocking the fund. Thune and Johnson are now confident they have the votes — as long as the bill remains narrowly focused on ICE and CBP. However, Democrats have pledged to force amendment votes on the fund even after the DOJ backed down, potentially slowing the vote-a-rama. Tillis's Medicaid concerns and Paul's deficit objections remain. If those hold, Thune still needs Vance to break a 50–50 tie. The final vote is expected as soon as today or tomorrow.
Cassidy primary loss
Sen. Cassidy (R-LA) Loses Primary to Trump-Endorsed Challenger Second incumbent toppled · Voted to convict Trump at impeachment · Caucus purge continues
R
Cassidy: Voted to convict Trump at 2nd impeachment · Repeatedly bucked administration Pattern: Second sitting Republican senator toppled · Cornyn (TX) first · Both by Trump-endorsed challengers Impact: Two fewer establishment Rs in next Congress · Caucus more Trump-aligned
Sen. Bill Cassidy lost his Louisiana primary to a Trump-backed challenger — the second sitting Republican senator toppled in the 2026 cycle after Cornyn's defeat. Cassidy voted to convict Trump at his second impeachment trial and has repeatedly broken with the administration on healthcare and other issues. His and Cornyn's defeats represent a sweeping consolidation of Trump's grip on the Republican Senate caucus. The next Congress will have fewer senators willing to break with Trump on procedural or policy votes — including on the filibuster, which both Paxton and Cassidy's successor may be more aggressively willing to abolish.
FISA — June 12 · 10 days
FISA Section 702 — 3-Year Deal · June 12 Expiration · 10 Days ⚠ 10 days · Effective deadline ~June 9 · CBDC + warrant divide · Path may open if CBDC moves to 3rd bill
R
Current: P.L. 119-86 · Expires June 12 Potential unlock: CBDC ban moving to 3rd reconciliation bill would allow clean Senate-passable FISA deal Intel warning: Lapse would damage Project Freedom Strait operations · Iran war SIGINT context
No FISA deal has been announced. With reconciliation now on a clear path to passage, attention shifts sharply to FISA — 10 days to expiration, effective deadline ~June 9. The most promising pathway: move the CBDC ban to the third reconciliation bill, allowing a clean FISA extension to pass the Senate without the CBDC obstacle. Privacy hawks from both parties are still pressing for a warrant requirement. If neither a 3-year deal nor a short-term extension passes by June 12, FISA lapses for only the second time since 1978 — particularly damaging given ongoing Project Freedom intelligence operations.
War Powers — Iran · 8th attempt
Iran War Powers Resolution — 8th Senate Attempt Expected · Murkowski AUMF Introduction ⚠ War Powers vote coming · Murkowski AUMF expected this week · 3 R crossovers last time
D
Last vote: 3 R crossovers (Murkowski + Collins + Paul) · May 13 · Narrowest yet Murkowski AUMF: Introduction expected this week · Collins + Tillis + Curtis potential co-sponsors Rubio: Renamed conflict "Project Freedom" · White House declared hostilities "terminated"
There could be trouble for GOP leadership when a resolution designed to force Trump to withdraw from Iran comes up for further consideration in both chambers. Democrats will force an 8th War Powers vote this week. The previous vote saw three Republicans cross over — Murkowski, Collins, and Paul. Murkowski is also expected to introduce her Iran AUMF this week, which would authorize the war with conditions rather than end it. If the AUMF attracts additional Republican co-sponsors, it shifts the debate entirely. The White House has still not publicly responded to the AUMF announcement.
June 2026
Jun 1 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.
Returns
May 2026
Jun 1 Dropped
Anti-weaponization fund dropped — DOJ abides by court ruling · Reconciliation path clears
Trump administration backed down on $1.776B anti-weaponization fund Mon morning. DOJ announced compliance with Eastern District of Virginia court order blocking the fund. Thune called on White House to abandon it; Johnson met Trump personally. Republican leaders now confident $72B reconciliation bill can pass this week with fund removed. Democrats still plan amendment votes on fund.
Fund dropped
May 26 Primary loss
Sen. Cassidy (R-LA) loses primary to Trump-endorsed challenger
Second sitting Republican senator toppled in 2026 cycle after Cornyn. Cassidy voted to convict Trump at 2nd impeachment trial. Two fewer establishment-aligned Republican senators in next Congress. Both Paxton and Cassidy's successor more likely to support filibuster abolition.
Primary loss
May 26 Primary result
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.
Paxton wins
May 21 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.
Stalled
May 20 Markup completed
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.
Markup done
May 19 Markup completed
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.
Markup done
May 17 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").
Ruled out
May 15 Passed House
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.
Passed
May 15 Announced
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.
AUMF coming
May 15 Diplomatic
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.
Tariffs lifted
May 14 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.
Renamed
May 14 Hearing
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.
$29B confirmed
May 14 Advanced
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.
Advanced committee
May 13 Confirmed
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.
54–45
May 13 Advanced
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.
3 R crossovers
May 12 Confirmed
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.
51–45
May 11 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.
Cloture invoked
May 11 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.
49 confirmed
May 8 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.
Text released
May 7 Escalation
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.
Tanker attacked
May 1 WH Letter
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.
Disputed
Apr 30 SCOTUS
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."
6–3
May 3 Indictment
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.
Indicted
April 2026
Apr 30 Enacted
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.
Signed
Apr 30 Enacted
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.
Signed
Apr 29 Confirmed
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.
59–39
Apr 29 Passed House
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.
235–191
Apr 29 Adopted
House adopted 215–211 party-line. Both chambers now adopted — reconciliation formally launched. Senate committees write ICE/CBP funding bill by May 15.
215–211
Apr 29 Rule passed
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."
216–210
Apr 29 Joint Address
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.
Joint session
Apr 27 Cloture invoked
Robert Cekada — ATF Director · Cloture invoked Mon
Cloture invoked on nomination. Confirmation vote scheduled today Apr 28. Expected party-line confirmation.
Cloture invoked
Apr 25 Shooting
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.
1 agent wounded
Apr 23 Passed House
Geothermal energy bill passed the House Thursday. Waives NEPA review for certain federal land geothermal activities. Bipartisan support. Sent to Senate.
Passed
Apr 23 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.
Cloture filed
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.
50–48
Apr 22 Failed
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.
46–51
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.
52–46
Apr 21 Resigned
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.
Effective 1:30 p.m.
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.
47–46
Apr 20 On Calendar
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.
Rule XIV
Apr 20 Passed
S.Res. 681 — Resolution honoring Chuck Norris
Adopted by voice vote. Memorial resolution for the late actor and martial artist.
Voice vote
Apr 18 Enacted
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.
Signed
Apr 16 Failed
Motion to discharge from Senate Foreign Relations Committee failed. Democrats could not win Republican crossover votes needed to force the bill to the floor.
47–52
Apr 16 Passed Senate
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.
50–49
Apr 16 Cloture invoked
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.
49–48
Apr 15 Failed
Motion to discharge from Foreign Relations Committee failed. Would have directed disapproval of U.S. arms sales to Israel.
36–63
Apr 15 Passed
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.
51–49
Apr 14 Confirmed
John Thomas Shepherd — U.S. District Judge, W.D. Arkansas
Trump judicial nominee confirmed by Senate. Part of ongoing judicial confirmation pipeline.
Party-line
Apr 13 Enacted
Signed April 13, 2026. Addresses small business innovation programs and economic security provisions.
Signed
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
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.
82–11
February 2026
Feb 28 Military
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.
No AUMF
Feb 25 Passed House
Requires documentary proof of citizenship to register for federal elections; photo ID to vote. Passed House 218–213. Currently stalled in Senate filibuster.
218–213
Feb 18 Enacted
Establishes a congressional time capsule for the U.S. 250th anniversary in 2026.
Signed
Feb 18 Enacted
Congressional Review Act disapproval of D.C. Council's income and franchise tax conformity amendment.
Signed
Feb 14 Shutdown
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.
Day 75
Feb 10 Enacted
Requires federal agencies to cross-check payment records against the Social Security death master file to eliminate improper payments to deceased individuals.
Signed
Feb 9 Passed House
Bipartisan housing supply bill passed House. Includes zoning reform incentives, FHA loan limit increases, streamlined environmental reviews.
Bipartisan
Feb 6 Enacted
Reforms bankruptcy court administrative procedures and fee structures.
Signed
Feb 3 Enacted
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.
Signed
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
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.
4 days
Jan 23 Enacted
Signed Jan 23, 2026. Part of the FY2026 appropriations package covering Commerce, Justice, Science (including NASA/NSF), Energy and Water, and Interior/Environment departments.
Signed
Jan 22 Passed House
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.
341–88 / 220–207
Jan 20 Enacted
Amends title 38 to improve VA housing assistance programs for disabled veterans.
Signed
Jan 8 Veto sustained
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.
Override failed
Jan 5 Session opens
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.