Скачать или смотреть Congress Briefing - 2026-01-25 - 05:44 AM EST

Capitol Hill Recap: Impeachment Resolutions, AI Security, and the 2026 Budget

The 119th Congress is moving at a rapid pace this January with a mix of high-stakes political resolutions, critical spending measures, and national security legislation. Here is a breakdown of the key activities currently shaping the legislative landscape.

Major Legislative Moves

Tensions are high regarding the Department of Homeland Security, with the introduction of H.Res. 996, a resolution to impeach Secretary Kristi Lynn Arnold Noem for high crimes and misdemeanors. On the fiscal front, lawmakers are tackling the federal budget with H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act for 2026.

Social and cultural issues also took center stage:

Language in Government: H.R. 7235 proposes prohibiting federal agencies from using the term "birthing person" in official documents.
Healthcare Regulations: H.R. 7237 seeks to amend the Public Health Service Act regarding notifications for chemical abortions.


Defense, Tech, and Security

Congress is looking outward at emerging threats and resource independence. Legislation of note includes:

Artificial Intelligence: H.R. 7058 requires the State Department to assess risks posed by foreign adversaries utilizing generative AI for malicious purposes.
Critical Minerals: H.R. 7037 focuses on developing overseas mineral investment networks to secure critical energy supply chains.
Ammunition Control: H.R. 7166 was introduced to mandate face-to-face ammunition purchases and dealer licensing.


Veterans and Workforce Development

Support for service members and skilled trades remains a bipartisan priority. The Veteran Education Empowerment Act aims to bolster educational resources for former service members. Additionally, H.R. 7238 proposes establishing a Commission on Equity and Reconciliation in the Uniformed Services.

In the civilian sector, H.R. 7115 looks to establish "Jumpstart Programs" to encourage savings for apprenticeship and trade occupation training.

Nominations and Hearings

The Senate has received a slate of judicial and attorney nominations across several states. Notable appointments include Nicholas Jon Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas and Andrew Benson for U.S. Attorney in Maine.

Meanwhile, committees are holding oversight hearings on diverse topics, ranging from foreign hardware risks in transportation systems and deep-sea mining barriers to fraud in public fund usage....