US Senate

The U.S. Senate passed the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 in an 86-11 bipartisan vote, imposing sanctions on Russia over its Ukraine invasion and granting President Trump authority to impose up to 100% tariffs on top Russian oil and gas buyers, including China, India, Azerbaijan, Hungary, and Slovakia. The bill also targets Russian officials, oligarchs, and Iran’s energy sector. It now heads to the House, facing uncertain prospects due to concerns over expanded presidential tariff powers.

18 reports · 9 sources · Updated Aug 13, 01:12 PM UTC

Ten candidates, including Darline Graham (Lindsey Graham’s sister and interim appointee), Reps. Russell Fry and Ralph Norman, former Gov. Mark Sanford, and businessman Mark Lynch, are vying in a special Republican primary on August 10, 2026, to fill the late senator’s seat. Darline Graham, endorsed by President Trump and backed by the NRSC, is the front-runner, but a crowded field makes a runoff likely. The winner will face Democrat Annie Andrews in November.

24 reports · 6 sources · Updated Aug 24, 02:08 PM UTC

President Trump suggested temporarily withdrawing Todd Blanche’s nomination for U.S. Attorney General after Republican Senators Cornyn and Tillis blocked a committee vote. The holdouts demand changes to a $1.8 billion IRS settlement granting Trump immunity from audits. Blanche can remain acting AG, but Trump may wait until the senators leave office next year, risking a Democratic Senate takeover.

91 reports · 15 sources · Updated Aug 11, 02:49 PM UTC

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear (D) has publicly called on Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) to provide a health update or resign after a 43-day unexplained absence following a June 14 fall and pneumonia. McConnell, 84, remains in rehabilitation with no return date. The absence creates political uncertainty as an August 3 deadline nears for a special election under a 2024 Kentucky law barring gubernatorial appointments. Beshear suggests a special election could give Democrats a chance at the seat. McConnell’s office has released only two photos and a brief recovery statement.

12 reports · 4 sources · Updated Aug 6, 09:44 PM UTC

On July 29, 2026, Dr. Anthony Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment over 100 times during a Senate Homeland Security Committee hearing chaired by Sen. Rand Paul, declining to answer questions about his COVID-19 pandemic response. Paul ordered security to remove Fauci’s attorney and threatened contempt of Congress, with a committee vote scheduled for next week. Fauci, who received a presidential pardon from Joe Biden in 2025, accused Paul of an “unhinged obsession.” The hearing highlighted deep partisan divisions over pandemic accountability.

15 reports · 9 sources · Updated Aug 6, 01:50 PM UTC

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators, led by Sen. Jim Banks (R-Ind.) and Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), is advocating for the AI Workforce PREPARE Act, which would improve federal data collection on artificial intelligence's effects on the workforce. The bill would add questions to federal surveys about AI use in workplaces, create an AI Workforce Research Hub at the Labor Department, monitor job transitions due to AI, and require disclosure if AI contributes to mass layoffs. At a Senate HELP subcommittee hearing, experts downplayed fears of mass unemployment, instead emphasizing that AI will change job tasks and required skills. The bill also encourages voluntary corporate data sharing on AI adoption. Co-sponsors include Sens. Maggie Hassan, Jon Husted, and Roger Marshall.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 07:02 PM UTC

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on July 28, 2026, ahead of Senator Lindsey Graham’s funeral, focusing on Ukraine’s licensed production of Patriot missile systems. Separately, Zelensky met Raytheon executives in Kyiv and gave an interview to far-right influencer Laura Loomer, who apologized for past anti-Ukraine remarks. Trump shared Loomer’s clip on Truth Social, signaling shifting MAGA attitudes. Zelensky also warned that Russia is sharing satellite imagery of U.S. bases with Iran.

21 reports · 11 sources · Updated Jul 31, 09:54 AM UTC

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) stated that a visitor to Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) described the former Senate Majority Leader as 'clear-minded' while he remains in a rehabilitation center. Capito made the remarks in a video posted Saturday to independent journalist Nicholas Ballasy. She confirmed that McConnell is recovering and healing, based on reports she had heard. The update comes amid public interest in McConnell's health following his recent hospitalization and rehabilitation stay. Capito did not provide further details on the nature of McConnell's condition or his expected return to the Senate.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 02:52 PM UTC

On July 15, 2026, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a $500 million Foreign Military Financing bill for Taiwan, part of the 2027 fiscal year appropriations. This occurs as President Trump delayed a $14 billion weapons package after meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping in May, calling it a "negotiating chip." The funding supports older arms deals, including howitzers and missiles. The bill requires Senate approval and Trump's signature. China, claiming sovereignty over Taiwan, has increased military exercises near the island.

6 reports · 2 sources · Updated Jul 27, 11:00 AM UTC

On July 26, 2026, Republicans released a revised Crypto Clarity Act draft, drawing support from Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon, who broke with other Wall Street leaders to back the bill. Solomon argued it creates a level playing field and market stability. However, seven Senate Democrats, including Cory Booker and Mark Warner, issued a joint statement saying the bill 'falls short' on ethics, consumer protection, and market integrity. Senator Elizabeth Warren declared the bill 'dead on arrival,' claiming it allows President Trump to profit from crypto. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a key negotiator, was notably absent from the Democratic statement. Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong urged a full Senate vote, while banking trade groups remain opposed, warning the bill risks local lending. Senator Cynthia Lummis defended the bill as legitimate, citing Trump's agreement to ethics standards.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 26, 05:30 PM UTC

The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee approved a bill introduced by Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) and co-sponsored by Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.) that would ban the import, sale, and operation of vehicles manufactured by companies deemed 'foreign entities of concern,' primarily targeting Chinese-made vehicles and connected vehicle technologies. Moreno argued the bill addresses national security risks, including remote control of steering, braking, and acceleration by adversarial governments. Two amendments were considered: one by Sen. Tammy Duckworth to align definitions with existing Commerce Department rules (voted down 9-19), and another by Sen. Ted Cruz to soften a provision on Chinese ownership (withdrawn). Cruz expressed support for the bill but warned that overly broad language could impact foreign batteries and raise costs, potentially hindering the bill's passage into law.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 05:11 PM UTC

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee on July 21, 2026, announcing that the Iran war has cost $37.5 billion so far, up from a previous estimate of $29 billion. The figure includes past expenditures and expected costs through September 30. Hegseth advocated for a $67 billion supplemental defense budget to ensure operational readiness and replace expended materiel, emphasizing it is separate from the regular budget. His goal is a $1.5 trillion defense budget for FY2026. The hearing was disrupted multiple times by protesters demanding an end to the Iran war, who were escorted out. Separately, President Donald Trump threatened imminent attacks on Iran's underground nuclear facility, Pickaxe Mountain, stating the US is 'far from finished' with Iran. The US has conducted nightly strikes on Iran for over a week, with Iran retaliating against Gulf state allies.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:29 PM UTC

Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) criticized Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's proposal to add testosterone screenings to periodic health assessments for U.S. service members. Speaking on MSNBC's 'The Briefing with Jen Psaki' on Monday, Kelly argued that the military's primary need is improved leadership, not increased testosterone levels. The proposal, which would require routine testosterone checks, has sparked debate over its necessity and implications for military readiness and culture. Kelly's remarks highlight ongoing tensions between some lawmakers and the Pentagon over personnel policies and priorities.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 07:06 PM UTC

Senator Andy Kim (D-N.J.) introduced the MediKids Act on Tuesday, a proposal to automatically enroll all American children into Medicare at birth and provide coverage until age 26. Kim stated that Democrats need fresh ideas to advance the healthcare debate. The plan aims to create a universal healthcare system for children, ensuring every child has access to medical coverage from birth through young adulthood. The proposal represents a significant expansion of the existing Medicare program, which currently primarily serves seniors and some disabled individuals.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 02:39 PM UTC

Hoover Institution fellow Drew Endy testified before the US Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation in a hearing titled 'Measuring What Matters: Science, Standards, and Strategic Competition.' The hearing focused on the role of science standards in strategic competition, particularly in technology and governance. Endy's testimony, available for viewing and reading, addresses how the United States can measure and prioritize scientific and technological standards to maintain a competitive edge. The event underscores the intersection of science policy, economic governance, and national security in the context of global strategic rivalry.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 12:00 AM UTC

This analysis from The Week examines the political career of Senator Lindsey Graham, who died unexpectedly from a ruptured aorta. It highlights his transformation from a principled, bipartisan senator and close ally of John McCain to a fawning supporter of Donald Trump. Initially a vocal critic of Trump in 2016, Graham later became his key Senate ally, abandoning his earlier 'idealistic patriotism' for political relevance. The article draws on multiple sources, including The Atlantic, The Wall Street Journal, and Politico, to explore whether Graham's shift was a cynical adaptation to the new GOP or a genuine change. It notes that Graham used his proximity to Trump to advance long-standing policy goals, such as bombing Iran. The piece concludes by questioning whether the trade-off was worth it, leaving judgment to Trump's remaining time in office.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 04:23 PM UTC

This analysis examines the political career of Senator Lindsey Graham, who died unexpectedly from a ruptured aorta. The article traces his transformation from a bipartisan, hawkish patriot who initially condemned Donald Trump as a 'race-baiting, xenophobic, religious bigot' to becoming Trump's most important Senate ally. Graham's career is divided into two phases: loyalty to John McCain as a 'Three Amigos' member advocating American military power for good, and later a 'head-spinning transformation' to align with Trump. Critics note Graham craved influence and chose adaptation over leaving politics, using his proximity to Trump to advance long-standing goals like bombing Iran. The piece questions whether his legacy of abandoning principles for relevance was ultimately worth it, leaving judgment to Trump's remaining time in office.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 04:23 PM UTC

This analysis examines the political legacy of Senator Lindsey Graham, who died unexpectedly from a ruptured aorta. It traces his transformation from a principled, bipartisan hawk in the John McCain mold—who once called Donald Trump a 'race-baiting, xenophobic, religious bigot'—into Trump's most important Senate ally. The article highlights Graham's 'head-spinning transformation' after Trump's 2016 victory, driven by a craving for influence and relevance. It notes that Graham abandoned his earlier 'idealistic patriotism' to become an opportunistic collaborator, enabling him to advance long-standing policy goals like bombing Iran. The piece concludes by questioning whether the trade-off was worth it, leaving judgment to Trump's remaining time in office.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 04:23 PM UTC

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) on Thursday initiated procedural steps to place on the Senate calendar a House-passed bill that would provide $1.3 billion in security assistance for Ukraine and expand sanctions on Russia. The legislation previously passed the House last month with a vote of 226-195, overcoming opposition from House GOP leaders. The move signals continued bipartisan support for Ukraine amid its war with Russia, though the bill faces an uncertain path in the Senate. The measure includes funding for weapons, equipment, and training for Ukrainian forces, as well as new sanctions targeting Russian energy, banking, and defense sectors. Eighteen House Republicans crossed party lines to support the bill.

1 reports · 1 sources

The sudden death of four-term Republican Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina has upended the 2026 midterm campaign. Governor Henry McMaster appointed Graham's sister, Darline Graham Nordone, as interim senator. A special GOP primary is set for August 11, with potential candidates including Rep. Nancy Mace, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, and others. President Trump hinted at a preferred candidate but declined to name them. The seat remains solidly Republican.

41 reports · 11 sources · Updated Jul 23, 03:20 PM UTC

Senator Lindsey Graham died Saturday after experiencing chest pains, according to new details provided by Senator Tommy Tuberville. Graham called his scheduler, Taylor Stephens, who had previously worked for Tuberville, saying he was having chest pains and needed help. When asked if he had called 911, Graham replied that was why he called her. The scheduler, who was at a restaurant with a current Tuberville staffer, then contacted emergency services and went to Graham's residence, where emergency personnel had broken down the door and were performing CPR. Graham's office confirmed his death was due to 'aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease.' The 911 call was made after 8 p.m. Saturday for cardiac arrest, with CPR being conducted about 25 minutes after the first dispatch.

1 reports · 1 sources

Senator Mitch McConnell, 84, has been hospitalized since June 14, 2026, after a fall, now recovering in a rehab center. His office provided scant details, fueling unconfirmed rumors of brain death from MAGA figures like Laura Loomer. Fellow Republicans claim to have spoken with him. His D.C. home underwent renovations, sparking further speculation. McConnell is set to retire in January 2027.

7 reports · 3 sources · Updated Jul 13, 04:43 PM UTC

The US Senate confirmed Kevin Warsh as a Federal Reserve Governor and advanced his nomination for Chair, succeeding Jerome Powell. This transition, driven by President Trump’s administration, occurs amid rising inflation and significant internal Fed division. Warsh’s confirmation signals a potential shift toward lower interest rates and closer Treasury coordination, despite concerns over central bank independence. The move marks a pivotal change in US monetary policy leadership, with Warsh set to influence economic strategy and rate decisions during a period of geopolitical uncertainty and mixed economic indicators.

47 reports · 23 sources · Updated May 27, 06:41 PM UTC

President Donald Trump has nominated controversial political figure and former Arizona gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake as the next US Ambassador to Jamaica. The announcement follows a federal court ruling that deemed her previous role at the US Agency for Global Media improper due to legal violations. Lake, a prominent Trump ally known for election denialism, requires Senate confirmation for the diplomatic post. Critics argue her appointment reflects a strategy of rewarding political loyalty over diplomatic expertise, raising concerns about US foreign relations and the qualifications of key administrative appointees during Trump’s second term.

7 reports · 5 sources · Updated May 16, 12:40 AM UTC

A bipartisan group of U.S. Senators has introduced legislation to abolish the Selective Service System, arguing the agency is an outdated expense costing taxpayers over $31 million annually. Proponents claim the all-volunteer force renders conscription obsolete since 1973. This initiative contrasts with recent congressional mandates for automated registration by 2026 and White House comments refusing to rule out reviving the draft amid geopolitical tensions. The bill seeks to permanently dismantle the database, citing sufficient military readiness and lack of public support for conscription.

10 reports · 5 sources · Updated May 15, 09:34 PM UTC

This South China Morning Post digest highlights seven critical developments in US-China relations from early May 2026. Key stories include the conclusion of the Xi-Trump summit, which Chinese President Xi Jinping termed a historical landmark resulting in important consensus, though questions remain about the future of the rivalry. Concurrently, the US Senate issued warnings regarding China's unprecedented nuclear expansion just hours before the summit took place in Beijing. Another significant legal development involves a Chinese-American man found guilty in New York for acting as an unauthorized agent for China, linked to the operation of a so-called secret police station in Chinatown aimed at intimidating overseas communities. The article serves as a roundup of geopolitical tensions, covering topics ranging from AI supremacy and nuclear capabilities to transnational repression and diplomatic engagements. It provides a snapshot of the multifaceted challenges defining the bilateral relationship during this period, emphasizing both high-level diplomatic interactions and lower-level legal and security conflicts.

1 reports · 1 sources

The US Senate Judiciary Committee, led by Chairman Chuck Grassley, has summoned CEOs of Meta, Alphabet, TikTok, and Snap to testify on June 23 regarding children’s online safety. This hearing intensifies legislative scrutiny following recent court rulings holding tech firms liable for harmful platform designs affecting youth mental health. Lawmakers aim to address data privacy, whistleblower protections, and potential regulatory reforms like the Kids Online Safety Act. The event underscores growing bipartisan pressure to hold Big Tech accountable for digital harms and marks a significant escalation in congressional oversight of the technology sector.

7 reports · 4 sources · Updated May 16, 08:15 AM UTC

The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution to withhold senators' paychecks during future government shutdowns, effective after the November 3 general election. This measure addresses historical disparities where lawmakers remained paid while federal employees faced financial strain. Concurrently, Democrats in the House Homeland Security Committee urged FEMA to address critical staffing shortages and vacant leadership roles before the Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1. The Government Accountability Office reported nine new Anti-Deficiency Act violations across agencies like the USDA and Labor Department for fiscal 2025. In administrative updates, the General Services Administration will introduce a new special item number for grant management systems to modernize procurement. The Army is transitioning from the Defense Department Mobility Unclassified Capability program to the Army Mobility Program to enhance secure communications. Additionally, recent data indicates a rebound in federal employee retention following previous spikes in job searching, though engagement levels remain lower than other sectors. These developments highlight ongoing efforts to reform federal operations, manage workforce stability, and ensure agency readiness amidst political and logistical challenges.

1 reports · 1 sources

A United States Senate panel has officially approved the Clarity Act, a significant piece of legislation aimed at regulating the cryptocurrency industry. The bill now advances to the full Senate for further consideration and voting. A key feature of the approved version is that the language regarding stablecoin yields remains intact, preserving specific provisions related to the financial mechanics of stablecoins. During the final stages of the panel's review, several last-minute amendments were reintroduced for discussion. However, a proposed measure focused on anti-money laundering protocols was explicitly denied and did not make it into the approved text. This development marks a crucial step in the ongoing legislative efforts to establish a clearer regulatory framework for digital assets in the US. The retention of stablecoin yield language suggests a nuanced approach to regulating decentralized finance elements, while the rejection of the anti-money laundering amendment indicates ongoing debates regarding compliance burdens and privacy concerns within the crypto sector. The bill's progression highlights the increasing attention lawmakers are paying to the integration of cryptocurrencies into the broader financial system.

1 reports · 1 sources

The US Senate is moving forward with legislation to regulate artificial intelligence chatbots, driven by bipartisan concerns over child safety following reports of suicides linked to AI interactions. Senate Commerce Chairman Ted Cruz plans to mark up his bipartisan bill, which empowers parents with control tools, while the Senate Judiciary Committee has already advanced Senator Josh Hawley’s stricter proposal banning minors from using companion chatbots. Despite broad agreement on the need for regulation, significant debates persist regarding the scope of these laws, particularly concerning free speech and privacy rights. The legislative push coincides with the upcoming midterm elections, where voter skepticism about AI risks is high, with 43 percent of adults believing risks outweigh benefits. However, the condensed congressional calendar due to campaigning may limit the time available to resolve unresolved legal questions before the current Congress ends. State-level actions are also increasing, with several states enacting or considering similar restrictions, reflecting a growing political appetite for addressing online safety harms.

1 reports · 1 sources