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
Congressional Floor Summary
House & Senate · Daily Legislative Report
Curated and produced by Lens and Mix, LLC using AI-assisted research
Friday, June 12, 2026
Week of June 8 · Session Day 38
Week context: A historic first: FISA Section 702 is set to lapse at midnight tonight — the first expiration in the program's roughly 18-year history. (Section 702 is the law that lets U.S. intelligence agencies collect the communications of foreign targets abroad without individual warrants — powerful and controversial because it also sweeps up Americans' data incidentally. Learn more ↗) After the House rejected a three-week extension 198–218 Thursday (199 Democrats and 19 Republicans against, far short of the two-thirds needed under suspension) and three Senate unanimous-consent attempts failed, both chambers left Washington — the House until June 23. The standoff comes down to one issue: Democrats refused to extend the surveillance authority unless Trump abandoned installing Bill Pulte as acting Director of National Intelligence, and Trump refused. Pulte still takes over June 19. Speaker Johnson called the outcome "shameful" and "dangerous," citing the World Cup and America250 events; Sen. Warner said his deeper worry is Pulte gaining "the keys to the 18 intelligence agencies." Some Democrats argue the near-term impact is limited because existing Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court certifications let ongoing collection continue for now. With Congress gone, attention turns to the June 23 return and Trump's demanded Recon 3.0.
What changed since June 11:
- House rejected the short-term FISA extension 198–218: The three-week extension (through July 2) failed under suspension of the rules, falling far short of the two-thirds majority required. 199 Democrats and 19 Republicans voted no; only 7 Democrats voted yes. The bipartisan opposition came from Democrats protesting Pulte and Republicans (like Massie) wanting a warrant requirement.
- Senate UC attempts failed; Wyden objected: Three separate attempts to pass short-term extensions by unanimous consent failed in the Senate, with Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) objecting to a request to extend §702 through July 2.
- Both chambers left town — FISA §702 to lapse at midnight: With no path forward, the House adjourned until June 23 and the Senate departed. Section 702 is now set to expire at midnight tonight for the first time in its history.
- Johnson: "shameful" · Warner: bigger worry is Pulte: Speaker Johnson called the lapse "detestable" and "dangerous," pointing to the World Cup and America250 events. Warner said the more serious concern is Pulte — who still takes over as acting DNI June 19 — getting "the keys to the 18 intelligence agencies."
- Possible limited near-term impact: Some Democrats and analysts note existing Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court certifications may allow ongoing §702 collection to continue in the short term, even with the statute lapsed — though the executive branch and national-security hawks warn any lapse injects legal risk and uncertainty.
- Next flashpoint — June 23 return: With Congress gone for over a week, the agenda on return centers on FISA's status and Trump's demanded Recon 3.0 ($350B Pentagon + SAVE Act), which collides with the parliamentarian's prior ruling.
🗓 Legislative Horizon
Major initiatives expected in the weeks ahead & remainder of the 119th Congress (ends Jan 3, 2027)
Imminent
Coming weeks
Later this session
Now — lapsing tonight
FISA Section 702 — Lapses at Midnight
Section 702 lapses at midnight June 12 — the first expiration in its roughly 18-year history. The House rejected a three-week extension 198–218 Thursday and three Senate UC attempts failed (Wyden objecting); both chambers then left town, the House until June 23. The standoff never resolved the core dispute: Democrats wouldn't extend while Bill Pulte is set to become acting DNI June 19, and Trump wouldn't withdraw him. Whether the near-term impact is limited (existing FISC certifications may bridge ongoing collection) or serious (legal uncertainty, intelligence gaps) is disputed and will clarify after midnight.
First-ever lapse. Resolution now waits for the June 23 House return. Pulte still takes over June 19.
This week
Reconciliation 3.0 — $350B Pentagon + SAVE Act
Hours after signing the ~$70B ICE/CBP reconciliation bill (June 10), Trump demanded a third party-line package: $350B for the Pentagon plus the SAVE America Act, moved under simple-majority reconciliation. The SAVE Act collides with the parliamentarian’s prior ruling that it is reconciliation-ineligible — and Trump has separately demanded Thune fire her over exactly that. Rep. Pfluger (R-TX) is championing the effort. Conservatives also hope to fold in Iran war defense funding, a CBDC ban, health care, and fraud-prevention provisions. Shaping up as the next major intra-GOP and procedural battleground.
"A serious problem for GOP leaders" (Punchbowl). Parliamentarian fight looms. Byrd Rule collision on SAVE Act.
Ongoing
Iran — War Powers & Ceasefire Framework
The House passed War Powers concurrent resolution H.Con.Res. 86, 215–208 (Massie, Fitzpatrick, Barrett, Davidson crossing over) — but as a concurrent resolution it is symbolic and is not presented to the president. The Senate’s joint resolution (S.J.Res., which would carry force of law) advanced 50–47 procedurally with four R crossovers (Collins, Murkowski, Paul, Cassidy); a final vote is still possible but needs one more Republican. A tentative U.S.–Iran framework (60-day ceasefire extension, Strait of Hormuz reopening, nuclear talks) is unfinalized and under strain after the U.S. struck Iran following the downing of an Apache helicopter. Bessent: no sanctions relief without Iranian HEU turnover. Graham wants congressional review under the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015.
Ceasefire strained. Senate final War Powers vote pending. Deal would moot the vote and ease FISA urgency.
Now — 2026 midterms
Supreme Court VRA Ruling — Louisiana v. Callais (6–3)
The Court’s 6–3 ruling in Louisiana v. Callais (April 30) gutted Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act as applied to majority-minority district mandates. Florida enacted a new map; Alabama, Tennessee, and others moved through special sessions; Louisiana’s attempt to delay its primary for redistricting drew legal challenges. Estimates suggest up to 19 additional Republican-leaning House seats could be drawn by 2028, though the Purcell doctrine limits changes close to the November 2026 election. Congressional Democrats have no legislative path to a fix with the current majorities. The ruling will shape redistricting through the 2030 census.
Maps shifting in multiple states. Up to ~19 R-leaning seats possible by 2028. Purcell limits 2026 changes.
By Sept. 30
FY2027 Appropriations
The new fiscal year begins October 1, 2026. All 12 appropriations bills must pass by September 30 to avoid a shutdown. Senate Appropriations (Collins/Murray) are working 302(b) toplines with markups planned after July 4; the House Transportation-Housing ("THUD") appropriations subcommittee markup is set for July 14, full committee July 17. The $350B Pentagon reconciliation demand complicates the defense topline — leadership must decide whether war/Pentagon funding flows through reconciliation or the regular bills. After this session’s shutdown history, another continuing resolution or shutdown is a realistic risk.
Hard deadline Sept. 30, 2026. Pentagon topline fight ahead. CR or shutdown a live possibility.
Coming months
Trump vs. the Senate Parliamentarian
Trump has twice in five weeks demanded Thune fire Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough over her rulings keeping the SAVE Act out of reconciliation. Thune is resisting, calling the targeting "concerning" — overruling or replacing her would set a precedent future majorities could exploit and would cost institutionalist votes (Collins, Murkowski, McConnell). The standoff is a recurring flashpoint that will resurface with every reconciliation and Byrd Rule fight, including Recon 3.0.
Institutional norms vs. results pressure. Resurfaces on every Byrd Rule dispute.
Later in session
Debt Ceiling
Treasury has been operating under extraordinary measures. The debt-limit runway depends on what fiscal vehicles move this year — a reconciliation package carrying a debt-limit increase would extend it, while inaction makes the ceiling a separate crisis point. Projections have pointed to a potential X-date around late 2026 or early 2027. Worth tracking as Recon 3.0 and appropriations develop.
Timing depends on whether a debt-limit increase rides on a moving vehicle. Potential X-date late 2026/early 2027.
Fall 2026
2026 Midterm Elections — Session Deadline
The 119th Congress ends January 3, 2027; all bills not enacted by then expire. The November 3, 2026 midterms decide the 120th Congress. Republicans hold a narrow House majority (roughly 218–215 with vacancies) and a 53–47 Senate (two independents caucus with Democrats). Trump-backed primary challengers have ousted incumbents Cornyn and Cassidy, reshaping the GOP caucus. The effective legislative window narrows by late summer as campaign season dominates.
Effective window closes by ~September 2026. Primary purges reshaping the GOP caucus.
Republican lead
Democrat lead
Bipartisan
Deadline
Active
Completed
Contested
U.S. House of Representatives
Majority Leader: Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA) · Speaker: Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) · Adjourned until June 23
FISA §702 — extension FAILED
FISA Section 702 — Three-Week Extension FAILED 198–218 · Program to Lapse at Midnight
⚠ Lapses midnight tonight · First expiration in program history · House gone until June 23
The House rejected a three-week extension of Section 702 on Thursday, 198–218 — far short of the two-thirds required under suspension of the rules. The opposition was bipartisan but for opposite reasons: 199 Democrats voted no to protest Trump's installation of Bill Pulte as acting DNI, while 19 Republicans (including Massie) want a warrant requirement attached. Only seven Democrats crossed over in favor. Speaker Johnson called the result "shameful," "detestable," and "dangerous," invoking the World Cup and America250 events. With the vote's failure, the House adjourned until June 23, leaving Section 702 to lapse at midnight tonight for the first time in its history.
Pulte — acting DNI June 19
Bill Pulte to Take Over as Acting DNI June 19 — The Core of the FISA Standoff
Trump refused to withdraw him · Democrats refused to extend FISA over it
The entire FISA impasse traces to one appointment. Trump named FHFA director Bill Pulte acting Director of National Intelligence, to take over from Tulsi Gabbard on June 19. Democrats made withdrawal of Pulte their condition for extending Section 702; Trump refused, and the surveillance authority is lapsing as a result. Lawmakers in both parties have criticized Pulte's lack of intelligence experience and his use of the FHFA to target Trump critics with mortgage investigations. Sen. Warner framed the deeper stakes bluntly: his concern is less what Pulte might do to 702 and more his gaining authority over all 18 U.S. intelligence agencies.
Recon 3.0 — awaits June 23 return
Reconciliation 3.0 ($350B Pentagon + SAVE Act) Waits for the House's Return
Trump's demand pending · Parliamentarian collision on SAVE Act unresolved
Trump's demanded "Recon 3.0" — a $350 billion Pentagon reconciliation bill that would also carry the SAVE America Act — is the dominant item awaiting the House's June 23 return. Moving the SAVE Act through reconciliation collides head-on with the parliamentarian's prior ruling that it is ineligible, the same dispute over which Trump has demanded Thune fire her. With both chambers out for over a week, the reconciliation fight is paused but unresolved, and will reignite alongside the FISA fallout when members come back.
U.S. Senate
Majority Leader: Sen. John Thune (R-SD) · Minority Leader: Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) · Departed after failed UC attempts
FISA §702 — Senate UC failed
FISA Section 702 – Three Senate Unanimous-Consent Attempts Failed · Wyden Objected
⚠ Lapses midnight tonight · Senate gone · No further action scheduled
The Senate's last avenue closed Thursday when three separate attempts to pass short-term FISA extensions by unanimous consent failed, with Sen. Ron Wyden objecting to a request to extend Section 702 through July 2. A single senator's objection is enough to block a UC request, and with the earlier June 5 motion to proceed already having failed 47–52, leadership had no remaining path before the deadline. Senators then left Washington. Barring an extraordinary recall, Section 702 lapses at midnight – the first time the authority has expired since it was enacted in 2008.
What the lapse means
What a §702 Lapse Actually Means – Disputed Near-Term Impact
Some say existing FISC certifications bridge the gap · Hawks warn of real risk
The practical effect of the lapse is genuinely contested. Some Democrats and outside analysts argue the immediate impact is limited: existing FISC certifications were approved before the deadline and may permit ongoing Section 702 collection to continue for a period even with the statute expired, so active investigations need not stop overnight. The executive branch and national-security hawks counter that any lapse – however brief – injects legal uncertainty, may let providers challenge compliance, and risks an intelligence gap at a sensitive moment with the World Cup and America250 events approaching. The true effect will become clearer in the days after midnight.
Iran – war powers & ceasefire
Iran – War Powers Vote Pending, Ceasefire Framework Still Strained
Senate S.J.Res. final vote possible on return · Framework unfinalized
The Iran file carries over the recess largely unchanged. The Senate's war powers joint resolution (which, unlike the House's symbolic concurrent resolution, would carry the force of law) advanced 50–47 procedurally and still needs one more Republican for final passage – now deferred until the chamber returns. The tentative 60-day ceasefire framework remains strained following the U.S. strike on Iran after the downing of an Apache helicopter, and Treasury Secretary Bessent maintains there will be no sanctions relief without Iran surrendering its highly enriched uranium. A finalized deal could still moot the war powers vote.
📎 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 DigestDay-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 12
Lapse
Lapsed
FISA Section 702 lapses at midnight — first expiration in program history
After the House and Senate failed to pass any extension and left town, Section 702 expires at midnight for the first time since its 2008 enactment. Core cause: Democrats refused to extend while Bill Pulte is set to become acting DNI June 19; Trump refused to withdraw him. Near-term impact disputed — existing FISC certifications may allow ongoing collection to continue. House returns June 23.
Jun 11
Failed
198–218
House rejects 3-week FISA extension 198–218 · Senate UC attempts fail
Three-week extension (through July 2) failed under suspension, far short of two-thirds. 199 Democrats + 19 Republicans against; only 7 Democrats for. In the Senate, three UC attempts failed with Wyden objecting. Both chambers left town; House adjourned until June 23. Johnson called it "shameful" and "dangerous"; Warner's worry: Pulte getting "the keys to the 18 intelligence agencies."
Jun 10
Signed into law
Signed
Trump signs $70B ICE/CBP reconciliation bill — funds agencies through end of term
Closes 115-day immigration standoff. House passed 214–212 (Jun 9); Senate 51–50 (Vance tie-break) last week. Anti-weaponization fund survived; Jan. 6 officers suing Trump over it; court order blocking fund remains pending litigation.
Jun 10
Demand
$350B
Trump demands "Recon 3.0" — $350B Pentagon bill + SAVE America Act via reconciliation
Truth Social post directs Republicans to immediately advance a $350B Pentagon reconciliation package including the SAVE America Act, under simple-majority reconciliation rules. Collides with parliamentarian's prior ruling that SAVE Act is reconciliation-ineligible. Pfluger (R-TX) championing. "A serious problem for GOP congressional leaders" per Punchbowl.
Jun 9
Passed House → Trump
214–212
ICE/CBP Reconciliation Bill — Passed House 214–212 · Headed to Trump's desk
Party-line 214–212 vote ends 115-day immigration standoff. Funds ICE + Border Patrol through 2029. Anti-weaponization fund ($1.776B) survived unrestricted. Only crossover: Rep. Kiley (I-CA, former R) voted with GOP. Jan. 6 officers suing Trump over the fund. Tillis blasted colleagues for not blocking it. Goes to Trump for signature.
Jun 8
Demand
Resisted
Trump demands Thune fire Senate parliamentarian over SAVE Act
Second such demand in 5 weeks. Parliamentarian MacDonough ruled SAVE Act can't pass via simple-majority reconciliation. Thune resisting — calls targeting "concerning." Would set precedent for future Democratic majorities and cost institutionalist R votes (Collins, Murkowski, McConnell).
Jun 7
Framework
Tentative
Tentative U.S.-Iran 60-day ceasefire extension + Strait of Hormuz framework reached
Tentative agreement (not yet finalized) to extend ceasefire 60 days, reopen Strait of Hormuz, and establish nuclear talks framework. Bessent condition: no sanctions relief without Iranian HEU turnover. Graham calling for congressional review under Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act. Trump: daily conversations with Iran. Initial Pakistan talks in April failed; deal would reshape entire fall legislative calendar.
Jun 6
Blocked
47–52
Senate Democrats block FISA motion to proceed 47–52 over Pulte DNI appointment
All Democrats except Fetterman voted no, joined by 6 Republicans (Hawley, Lee, Paul, Schmitt, Scott, Tuberville). Democrats protesting Trump's appointment of FHFA director Bill Pulte as acting DNI. Pulte used FHFA role to dig up mortgage info on Fed Gov. Cook and NY AG James. Warner: can't authorize surveillance when Pulte could use intelligence against Trump's political enemies. Fast-track FISA path now dead.
Jun 5
Failed 49–49
49–49
Warner amendment to bar Pulte as acting DNI — Failed 49–49 · 3 R crossovers
Cassidy, Collins, and Murkowski voted to bar a Senate-confirmed agency head from serving as acting DNI. Failed 49–49. All three questioned Pulte's credentials. Pulte simultaneously serves as FHFA director.
Jun 3
HISTORIC
Passed
Iran War Powers Resolution — PASSED House · First chamber passage of conflict
House passed concurrent resolution directing Trump to remove U.S. forces from Iran hostilities — first time either chamber has passed a War Powers resolution on the Iran conflict. Required Republican crossovers (Fitzpatrick, Bacon, others). Goes to Senate. Trump expected to veto if Senate passes. Rubio called House Foreign Affairs hearing "chaos" and warned Iran would think administration's "hands tied."
Jun 3
Passed House
215–208
H.Con.Res. 86 — Iran War Powers Resolution · Passed House 215–208
First final passage of a War Powers resolution on the Iran conflict in either chamber. R crossovers: Massie (KY), Fitzpatrick (PA), Barrett (MI), Davidson (OH). Johnson had previously sent members home early to prevent the vote. Trump: "4 bad Republicans" in "meaningless vote." Goes to Senate — final vote not yet scheduled. Active Iran deal talks may moot the vote.
Jun 3
Statement
Reversal
Fetterman: eliminating filibuster "we were so wrong, so wrong about that"
Sen. Fetterman reversed his prior position opposing filibuster elimination. Significant given Paxton and Cassidy successor elections — both more likely to push filibuster abolition. Fetterman has broken with Democrats on Warsh, Cekada, reconciliation, and War Powers throughout this session.
Jun 2
Passed Senate
51–50
ICE/CBP Reconciliation Bill ($72B) — Passed Senate 51–50 · Vance breaks tie
Collins, Tillis, and Paul voted no. Ballroom and anti-weaponization fund both stripped. Funds ICE ($38.2B) + CBP ($22.57B) through FY2029 + $1.5B DOJ. Goes to House — Johnson targeting July 2 floor vote. Senate made Medicaid changes that may complicate House passage. Paul: "The big not so beautiful bill has passed."
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.
Jun 1
Dropped
Fund 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.
May 2026
May 26
Primary loss
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.
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 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.
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.
April 2026
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."
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.
Apr 23
Adopted
50–48
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.
Apr 22
Motion to proceed
52–46
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.
Apr 21
Confirmed
47–46
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
—
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.
AppropriationsBudget
The annual bills that actually provide money for government operations. Twelve must be enacted each year; if they aren't done by the deadline, the affected agencies face a shutdown unless a stopgap measure is passed.
AUMF (Authorization for Use of Military Force)Legal / War powers
A law authorizing the president to use the military — the constitutional mechanism by which Congress, which alone holds the power to declare war, grants that authority. An AUMF takes the form of a bill or joint resolution and, once enacted, has the force of law.
Authorization vs. appropriationBudget
Two separate steps in funding government. An authorization creates or continues a program and sets a ceiling on what may be spent on it; an appropriation then provides the actual money — and the two amounts can differ.
Byrd RuleBudget
A Senate rule that bars provisions unrelated to the budget from a reconciliation bill. A senator can raise a point of order against an offending provision, and removing it generally requires 60 votes — so non-budget items are usually struck instead. The Senate parliamentarian advises on what qualifies.
ClotureFloor procedure
The only formal Senate procedure for ending debate and forcing a vote. Invoking cloture on most legislation requires a three-fifths majority — normally 60 of 100 senators — though for nominations it now takes only a simple majority.
Concurrent vs. joint resolutionLegislation types
Two different kinds of measures Congress can pass. A concurrent resolution (e.g., H.Con.Res.) expresses Congress's position but has no force of law and is not sent to the president. A joint resolution (e.g., S.J.Res.) does have the force of law if signed — or vetoed and overridden — much like a regular bill.
Continuing resolution (CR)Budget
A stopgap funding measure that keeps the government operating — usually at existing levels — when the regular appropriations bills aren't finished by the deadline. It buys time and prevents a shutdown without setting new full-year spending.
Discharge petitionFloor procedure
A House mechanism to force a bill out of a committee that won't act on it. If a majority of the House — 218 members — signs the petition, the bill can be brought to the floor over the leadership's wishes.
En blocFloor procedure
Considering or voting on a group of items — often several nominations or amendments — together in a single action rather than one at a time, to save floor time when there's no objection.
FilibusterFloor procedure
A tactic to delay or block a Senate vote by extending debate indefinitely. Because Senate rules place few limits on how long a senator may speak, overcoming a filibuster generally requires 60 votes through a process called cloture.
FISC (Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court)Legal / War powers
The secret federal court created by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act in 1978 to review government requests for surveillance in national-security cases. Among other things, it approves the annual "certifications" that authorize collection under Section 702 — which is why those certifications can outlast a brief lapse of the statute itself.
HoldFloor procedure
An informal notice from a senator to party leadership that they object to bringing a bill or nomination to the floor. Because the senator is signaling intent to filibuster, a hold can quietly stall a measure even though it isn't a formal rule.
INARA (Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act)Legal / Foreign affairs
A 2015 law giving Congress a defined window to review — and potentially vote to reject — certain agreements with Iran before sanctions relief can take effect. It's the mechanism lawmakers cite when they demand a congressional vote on an Iran deal.
MarkupCommittee
The committee stage where members debate a bill, offer and vote on amendments, and decide whether to send it to the floor. It's where most of the detailed shaping of legislation actually happens.
Motion to dischargeFloor procedure
A motion to pull a measure out of the committee considering it so the full chamber can take it up. In the Senate it's the counterpart to the House's discharge petition.
Motion to proceedFloor procedure
A procedural vote to begin formally considering a bill on the Senate floor. It must succeed before debate on the bill itself can start — and because the motion can itself be filibustered, it is often where a bill first stalls.
Omnibus / minibusBudget
A single large bill that bundles many appropriations measures together (omnibus), or a smaller bundle of just a few (minibus). Leaders use them to pass spending in one vote when passing the twelve bills separately has stalled.
ParliamentarianFloor procedure
The nonpartisan adviser in each chamber who interprets its rules and precedents — including, in the Senate, which provisions qualify to ride on a reconciliation bill under the Byrd Rule. The advice is influential but the chamber can, in rare cases, override it.
Point of orderFloor procedure
An objection that a rule or precedent is being violated. If the presiding officer sustains it, the offending provision or action is blocked — the tool used, for example, to strike non-budget items from a reconciliation bill under the Byrd Rule.
Purcell doctrine (Purcell principle)Legal / Elections
A legal doctrine holding that courts should avoid changing election rules in the period close to an election, to prevent confusion among voters and officials. It originates from the 2006 Supreme Court case Purcell v. Gonzalez and is often cited to let an election proceed under existing rules while litigation continues.
QuorumFloor procedure
The minimum number of members who must be present for the chamber to conduct business — a simple majority: 51 in the Senate and 218 in the House when there are no vacancies.
Recess vs. adjournmentFloor procedure
Two ways the chamber pauses. A recess is a temporary break that leaves pending business in place; an adjournment formally ends the legislative day or session. The distinction carries real procedural effects — including, constitutionally, neither chamber may adjourn for more than three days without the other's consent.
ReconciliationBudget
A special budget process that lets certain tax, spending, and debt-limit bills pass the Senate by simple majority, bypassing the 60-vote filibuster. Its scope is limited to budgetary provisions — non-budget items can be challenged and stripped under the Byrd Rule.
Regular orderFloor procedure
The normal step-by-step legislative process — committee markup, floor debate, amendments, and conference between the chambers. The term is usually invoked as a contrast, when members complain that leadership is bypassing those steps.
302(b) allocationsBudget
The division of the overall spending total among the twelve appropriations subcommittees, setting how much each one has to work with. The name comes from the section of the Congressional Budget Act that requires it.
Pro forma sessionFloor procedure
A brief, often minutes-long meeting of the chamber where no business is conducted, held to satisfy the constitutional requirement that Congress not adjourn for more than three days — and, in practice, to block the president from making recess appointments.
Suspension of the rulesFloor procedure
A fast-track House procedure that limits debate and bars amendments, used for less controversial bills. The trade-off: passage requires a two-thirds majority rather than a simple majority.
Unanimous consent (UC)Floor procedure
A way to move business quickly when no member objects — used constantly to set schedules and dispose of routine matters. Because it requires zero objections, a single senator can block it.
Veto overrideLegislation types
Congress enacting a bill into law over the president's veto, which requires a two-thirds vote in both the House and the Senate — a high bar that is rarely met.
Vote-a-ramaBudget
A marathon Senate session of rapid, back-to-back amendment votes with little or no debate between them. It typically occurs near the end of work on a budget resolution or reconciliation bill, when debate time has expired but amendments may still be offered.
War Powers ResolutionLegal / War powers
A 1973 law requiring the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of committing armed forces to action and to withdraw them after 60 days unless Congress authorizes the deployment. It is Congress's main statutory tool for asserting its constitutional role in decisions of war.