Congress

Washington Examiner Jul 29

Senator Hawley Questions Dr. Fauci's Refusal to Testify Before Congress

Senator Josh Hawley criticized Dr. Anthony Fauci for invoking his Fifth Amendment rights during a Senate hearing, where he refused to answer questions. Hawley contrasted Fauci's refusal to testify with his past interviews, suggesting Fauci was more willing to engage with lifestyle media than with Congress. Fauci stated that his decision was based on legal counsel and concerns about the motivations behind the questioning.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: -0.20

The Daily Beast Jul 29

Maria Cantwell Discusses Mitch McConnell's Health and Public Concerns

Senator Maria Cantwell questioned the need for more public updates on Senator Mitch McConnell's health, which has kept him away from Congress for about six weeks. While some are calling for video proof of his recovery, Cantwell expressed uncertainty about the necessity of such updates. McConnell's office stated he is still undergoing rehabilitation and is not yet cleared to return to work.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00

Axios Jul 29

White House Officials Advocate for GOP Megabill Before August Recess

White House officials are advocating for the passage of a GOP-only megabill in the Senate before the August recess. The proposed budget resolution includes significant funding for defense and agriculture, as well as provisions from the SAVE America Act. The White House is not seeking to raise the debt limit in this package.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: +0.00

apnews.com Jul 29

Dr. Anthony Fauci Invokes Fifth Amendment During Senate Hearing

Dr. Anthony Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment during a Senate hearing on July 29, 2026, where he faced questioning about his COVID-19 pandemic response. The hearing, led by Senator Rand Paul, has been criticized by Democrats as politically motivated. Fauci's attorney was removed from the hearing amid tensions, and the discussion included allegations regarding Fauci's role in pandemic-related research funding.

Bias: 16 Sentiment: -0.10

The Hill Jul 29

Trump's Demands Create Division Among Senate Republicans

President Trump has requested that the Senate cancel its August recess to debate the SAVE America Act and a budget reconciliation package for Iran funding. This has caused divisions among Senate Republicans about whether to cut short their break.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: -0.10

Axios Jul 29

Senate Majority Leader John Thune Faces Challenges Ahead

Senate Majority Leader John Thune is facing increased challenges as the Republican Party shifts towards a more Trump-aligned faction. With potential losses in moderate representation and the rise of hardline conservatives, Thune's influence may diminish, complicating legislative processes. The possibility of the GOP losing its Senate majority adds to the uncertainty of the political landscape ahead.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: -0.20

cbsnews.com Jul 29

Senate Confirms Jay Clayton as Director of National Intelligence

The Senate confirmed Jay Clayton as the Director of National Intelligence with a 51 to 47 vote. His confirmation follows a lapse in the Section 702 surveillance authority, and while some senators expressed hope for reauthorization, concerns about Clayton's political independence were raised during the confirmation process.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: +0.00

Washington Examiner Jul 29

Thune expresses concerns over Trump's debt ceiling proposal in GOP budget discussions

Senate Majority Leader John Thune raised concerns about President Trump's proposal to lift the debt ceiling as part of the GOP budget framework on July 28, 2026. Thune indicated that adding this provision could complicate the passage of the $95 billion budget bill and suggested that discussions on the debt limit might be better suited for after the November midterm elections.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00

Washington Examiner Jul 29

Senate Advances Sanctions Bill Targeting Russia and Iran

The Senate advanced a sanctions bill against Russia and Iran with a vote of 86-12 on July 28, 2026, following the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham. The legislation aims to impose economic penalties on Russia amid its war with Ukraine and extend sanctions on Iran's energy and weapons industries. The bill received bipartisan support and is expected to be voted on for final passage before the Senate's August recess.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.20

The Hill Jul 28

Comer states Fauci's pardon does not apply to upcoming testimony

James Comer, Chairman of the House Oversight Committee, indicated that Dr. Anthony Fauci's presidential pardon does not cover his testimony before a Senate panel. Fauci is expected to appear on Wednesday after Senator Rand Paul released pertinent information.

Bias: 30 Sentiment: +0.00

Axios Jul 28

GOP Reconciliation Package Advances Amid Trump Support

House Republicans are advocating for the Senate to expedite a $95 billion reconciliation package that aligns with President Trump's priorities. Key elements include funding for military operations related to Iran, farm aid for struggling farmers, and changes to federal election law. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has shown some resistance, but pressure is mounting for swift action.

Bias: 14 Sentiment: +0.00

Daily Wire Jul 28

Senate Confirms Jay Clayton as Director of National Intelligence

The Senate confirmed Jay Clayton as the Director of National Intelligence with a 51 to 47 vote. His confirmation follows opposition from Senate Democrats, who had previously protested the acting director's appointment. Senator Mark Warner raised concerns about Clayton's ability to withstand political pressure.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00

abcnews.com Jul 28

Senate Judiciary Committee Vote on Todd Blanche's Attorney General Nomination Faces Uncertainty

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche's nomination faces uncertainty as Senators John Cornyn and Thom Tillis require further assurances regarding the 'Anti-Weaponization Fund' and changes to an IRS settlement agreement involving former President Donald Trump. Cornyn has stated that he will not support Blanche's nomination unless he receives written commitments that align with Blanche's previous testimony about the fund's status.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00

notus.org Jul 28

Senator Mike Lee's Opposition to August Recess Draws Criticism from Colleagues

Senator Mike Lee's efforts to prevent the Senate's August recess in order to push for a vote on the SAVE America Act have faced significant backlash from his Republican colleagues. Many senators argue that staying in session would hinder their ability to campaign ahead of the midterm elections, and previous attempts to pass the bill have not garnered enough support. Discussions on the recess are anticipated among Senate Republicans soon.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: -0.20

Axios Jul 27

Senate Majority Leader Thune Faces Pressure from Trump and GOP Senators

Senate Majority Leader John Thune is under pressure from President Trump and some GOP senators regarding a voter ID bill and the SAVE America Act. Despite the challenges, Thune has received backing from several Republican senators, indicating that his leadership is not in jeopardy. Trump has demanded action on these issues, but Thune has stated that there are insufficient votes to make significant changes.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00

Washington Examiner Jul 27

Senate Advances Jay Clayton's Nomination as Director of National Intelligence

The Senate has advanced Jay Clayton's nomination for Director of National Intelligence with a vote of 51-43. Clayton, currently the U.S. attorney in Manhattan, is anticipated to be confirmed soon, despite facing opposition from Democrats who criticized his performance during the confirmation process.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00

Washington Examiner Jul 27

Senate Majority Leader John Thune Responds to Trump's Call to Cancel August Recess

Senate Majority Leader John Thune has expressed reluctance to support President Trump's call to cancel the August recess to advance the SAVE America Act. Thune cited challenges in passing the bill due to opposition among Senate Republicans and the filibuster. Trump has been vocal about his demands for the Senate to act on the legislation or eliminate the filibuster.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00

Washington Examiner Jul 27

House Ethics Committee Investigates Rep. Lance Gooden

Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX) is under investigation by the House Committee on Ethics, although the specific allegations have not been disclosed. Gooden has denied the claims, which he describes as finance-related. The committee is expected to provide updates on the investigation by November 9.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00

Fox News — Politics Jul 27

House Ethics Committee reviews allegations against Rep. Lance Gooden

The House Committee on Ethics is conducting a review of allegations against Rep. Lance Gooden, who has called the investigation 'baseless.' The review follows a report made to the Office of Congressional Conduct, with a decision on further action expected by November 9.

Bias: 36 Sentiment: +0.00

The Hill Jul 27

All Senators Invited to Meeting with Ukrainian President Zelensky

U.S. senators are scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday evening in the Capitol. The meeting coincides with Senate discussions on a bill aimed at implementing harsher sanctions against Russia.

Bias: 4 Sentiment: +0.00