Nicholas Begich

This resolution invoked the War Powers Act of 1973 — a law passed after Vietnam specifically to prevent presidents from taking the country to war without Congress's approval. It was introduced by Rep. Ro Khanna (D) and Rep. Thomas Massie (R) — a rare bipartisan pairing — after President Trump authorized military strikes on Iran, including attacks on nuclear facilities, without a formal congressional declaration of war. Six U.S. service members were killed in a retaliatory drone strike in Kuwait. The resolution would have required Trump to halt further military action unless Congress formally authorized it. It failed 212–219, with four Democrats voting against it and only two Republicans voting for it. A YEA vote meant: Congress, not the President, decides when we go to war. A NAY vote meant: the President has the authority to continue without asking.

Epstein Files Transparency ActThis bill requires the Department of Justice (DOJ) to publish (in a searchable and downloadable format) all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials in DOJ's possession that relate to the investigation and prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein.This includes (1) materials that relate to Ghislaine Maxwell, (2) flight logs and travel records, and (3) individuals named or referenced (including government officials) in connection with the investigation and prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein.DOJ is permitted to withhold certain information such as the personal information of victims and materials that would jeopardize an active federal investigation.Additionally, not later than 15 days after the required publication, DOJ must report to Congress (1) all categories of information released and withheld, (2) a summary of any redactions made, and (3) a list of all government officials and politically exposed individuals named or referenced in the published materials.

Temporarily reopened the government after a 6-week shutdown in late 2025. Passed 217-212 in the House.

Cut $9.4 billion in already-approved spending — $8.3B from foreign aid and $1.1B from public broadcasting. Codified DOGE's proposed cuts into law. Passed 214-212.

Moves crypto regulation from the SEC to the CFTC, a smaller agency seen as more industry-friendly. Bans a government-issued digital dollar and requires exchanges to keep customer funds separate. Passed the House only.

Massive reconciliation bill making Trump-era tax cuts permanent, raising the debt ceiling by $5 trillion, and cutting Medicaid. Passed by 1 vote in both chambers (215-214 House, 51-50 Senate with VP tiebreaker).

Kept the government funded temporarily after Congress couldn't agree on a full budget. Passed 217-213 in the House.

The full federal budget for 2026. Passed by razor-thin margins after months of shutdowns and stopgap bills. The full federal budget for 2026. Passed by razor-thin margins after months of shutdowns and stopgap bills.