High Profile Actions
The Senate made significant progress on several fronts yesterday, passing S. Res. 72, affirming that Hamas cannot retain political or military control in Gaza. Senators also advanced the "Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act" (S. 331) with strong bipartisan support, securing an 84-15 cloture vote. The bill is now set for a final vote today. Additionally, two key nominations were confirmed: William Pulte as Director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (56-43) and Jeffrey Kessler as Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security (54-45).
Government Efficiency Highlights and Lowlights
The Senate Banking Committee approved S. 875, a significant step toward limiting regulatory overreach by "curtailing the political weaponization of Federal banking agencies by eliminating reputational risk as a component of the supervision of depository institutions." This change aims to reduce subjective regulatory burdens on financial institutions and improve transparency in supervision.
Also noteworthy was the Banking Committee's approval of S. 919 to regulate payment stablecoins, providing clearer rules for cryptocurrency markets that could reduce regulatory uncertainty and associated compliance costs.
A potential efficiency challenge emerged with the withdrawal of David Weldon's nomination for Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, marking the new administration's first high-profile nomination withdrawal and potentially delaying leadership at this critical agency.
America-First Legislature
Several key America-first policies advanced through committee yesterday. The Senate unanimously passed S. Res. 72 regarding Hamas in Gaza, demonstrating a unified stance on foreign policy matters affecting U.S. interests and allies.
The Senate continued preparing for today's final vote on S. 331, the Halt All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act, which addresses the fentanyl crisis threatening American communities. The overwhelming 84-15 cloture vote signals strong bipartisan recognition of this threat to American lives.
Meanwhile, the Foreign Relations Committee concluded hearings on ambassador nominations to key allies - Canada, Japan, and Mexico - focusing on strengthening trade relationships and national security partnerships with our closest neighbors.
Pork Alert
The Senate introduced a staggering 57 new bills yesterday (S. 1013-1069), continuing the concerning trend of legislative proliferation without adequate fiscal constraint. Many of these bills will likely create new programs, offices, or spending initiatives without corresponding offsets or consolidations.
The House remains in Pro Forma session only, delaying important business while the Senate advances H.R. 1968, the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act. This perpetuates the inefficient practice of funding government through continuing resolutions rather than through proper budgeting processes with line-item review and accountability.
