Policy

House Republicans Renew Efforts on Epstein Files Legislation

Rep. Thomas Massie is close to securing enough Republican support to force a vote on the Epstein Files Transparency Act II, which aims to release remaining files at the DOJ. The effort is gaining traction as Massie and his allies target retiring Republicans and those in vulnerable districts for signatures. However, any potential vote would take place after the November midterms due to the House's scheduled recess.

Senate Advances Protect College Sports Act to Regulate College Athletics

The Senate has advanced the Protect College Sports Act, which aims to establish federal regulations for college athletics amid concerns over the current NIL landscape. The bill proposes measures including restrictions on the transfer portal and a uniform eligibility framework, but faces opposition from some lawmakers who argue it undermines student-athletes' bargaining power.

Wicker and Shaheen to Introduce Resolution on U.S. Support for Russian Pro-Democracy Movement

Senators Roger Wicker and Jeanne Shaheen are set to introduce a resolution urging the U.S. State Department to strengthen support for Russia's pro-democracy movement. The resolution is non-binding and will be introduced on September 16, 2026.

Supreme Court Ruling Supports Mail-in Voting Amid Election Officials' Assurance

The US Supreme Court ruled against Donald Trump's efforts to impose stricter regulations on mail-in voting, leading election officials to reassure the public about the safety of mail ballots. Trump's proposed changes were considered unfeasible before the midterm elections.

Amnesty International urges Algeria to reconsider death penalty expansion amid wildfire crisis

Amnesty International has urged Algeria to reconsider its plans to expand the death penalty to include wildfire arson, following recent devastating wildfires that resulted in multiple deaths. The organization expressed concerns that the proposed laws could be used to suppress political opposition and called for the government to focus on addressing the root causes of climate disasters.

Rep. Haley Stevens Supports Aspects of Trump Administration's Economic Policies

Rep. Haley Stevens Supports Key Trump Economic Policies

Rep. Haley Stevens, a Democrat from Michigan, has publicly supported several economic policies from the Trump administration, including collaboration with data center developers and loan guarantees for critical mineral extraction. While she acknowledges some alignment with Trump's agenda, she also emphasizes the need for higher taxes on the wealthy and has faced criticism from the White House for her past voting record.

Seattle Business Owner Calls for Action on Public Drug Use and Emergency Response

Seattle business owner Matt Humphrey has called for immediate action from city leaders regarding public drug use and slow emergency response times. He shared his experiences with ongoing issues near his businesses and expressed support for a letter signed by 38 local business leaders requesting a public-safety action plan. Humphrey emphasized the need for increased police presence and faster response times to ensure safety for employees and customers.

Bernie Sanders and Steve Bannon Collaborate at AI Conference

At the "Pro-Human Assembly 2026" conference on September 15, 2026, Senator Bernie Sanders and former Trump adviser Steve Bannon formed an unexpected alliance against AI development, despite significant disagreements regarding China. Sanders emphasized the need for U.S.-China cooperation on AI regulation, while Bannon condemned the Chinese Communist Party and rejected any agreements with them.

House Committee Recommends Contempt of Congress for Leon Black Over Epstein Inquiry

The House oversight committee has unanimously recommended that the House of Representatives hold financier Leon Black in contempt of Congress for failing to comply with subpoenas related to the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein. Black claims the subpoenas are invalid and is suing to block them, while committee chair James Comer highlighted the necessity of Black's testimony for the investigation.

FAA Chief Faces Bipartisan Criticism Over Air Traffic Controllers' Pay Raises

During a congressional hearing, FAA Chief Bryan Bedford faced criticism from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers regarding his decision to withhold a 2.8% pay raise for air traffic controllers. Lawmakers argued that withholding the raise contradicts the intentions of Congress and expressed concerns about low morale and staffing shortages within the agency.

Mayor Karen Bass Declines to Testify Before House Subcommittee on Homelessness Investigation

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declined to testify before a House subcommittee investigating alleged fraud in the city's homelessness system, leading to criticism from Republican leaders. Bass's campaign labeled the inquiry as politically motivated, while her attorney noted a decrease in unsheltered homelessness since she took office. The hearing included discussions on the management of federal funds and the effectiveness of current homelessness strategies.

House Advances Legislation for Russia Sanctions Bill

On September 15, 2026, the House of Representatives advanced a bill that provides President Trump with tariff authorities regarding countries buying Russian energy and extends sanctions on Iran. This marks a significant step forward for the Russia Sanctions Act.

Congress to Vote on Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia Act

The Lindsey Graham Sanctioning Russia Act is set for a House vote this week, aiming to strengthen sanctions against Russia and limit presidential discretion. Critics argue it may not impose significant new sanctions and could allow Trump to impose tariffs on various countries, raising concerns about potential trade conflicts with U.S. allies. Supporters believe it symbolizes congressional support for Ukraine, which requires material assistance.

Treasury Secretary Bessent Testifies Before House Financial Services Committee on AI and Bond Market

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent appeared before the House Financial Services Committee on September 15, 2026, to discuss concerns related to artificial intelligence and bond market interventions. The hearing lasted nearly three hours, during which Bessent defended his department's actions despite facing scrutiny from Democratic lawmakers.

Steve Bannon and Bernie Sanders Discuss AI Regulation at Pro-Human Assembly

At the Pro-Human Assembly in Washington, Steve Bannon and Bernie Sanders discussed the implications of artificial intelligence on society. Bannon called for bipartisan efforts to address AI threats, while Sanders emphasized the need for public involvement in AI development decisions.

Pete Buttigieg Supports Supreme Court Expansion to Reduce Partisanship

Pete Buttigieg expressed continued support for expanding the Supreme Court during an NBC interview on September 13, aiming to reduce partisanship. He highlighted the need for reform and noted that he had previously advocated for increasing the number of justices. Other political figures, including Vice President Kamala Harris and former Attorney General Eric Holder, have also discussed potential reforms to the Supreme Court.

Romanian Farmers Protest Against Livestock Export Ban, Clashes with Police Occur

On September 15, 2026, around 2,000 farmers protested in Bucharest against an EU livestock export ban, leading to clashes with police. The protest resulted in injuries, detentions, and calls for calm from government officials. The ongoing political crisis and high inflation in Romania have contributed to tensions among the population.

Kennedy Center Board Votes to Close Venue for Renovations

The Kennedy Center board voted to close the venue immediately for renovations due to financial and structural concerns. This decision follows a federal judge's rejection of an attempt to add Donald Trump's name to the building's facade, which the board claims is essential for avoiding bankruptcy. The center is facing significant financial challenges, and the board is expected to seek legal permission to proceed with the closure.

CBO Report Links Inflation Increase to War with Iran

The Congressional Budget Office released a report on September 15, 2026, linking the ongoing war with Iran to rising inflation in the U.S., attributing over one-third of the inflation increase this year to the conflict. The report also forecasts continued inflation growth and higher borrowing costs, with significant increases in fuel prices and military expenditure estimates.