Operation Epic Fury and housing amendments

In this episode of Congress in Context, we examine the high-stakes proceedings of March 9, 2026, as the 119th Congress grapples with domestic stalemates and a new international conflict. We break down the ongoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown, analyzing Senator Thune’s critique of the "unserious" Democratic funding proposals and Senator Durbin’s response following the firing of Secretary Kristi Noem.

The episode explores the escalating war in Iran, highlighting constitutional concerns over war powers and Senator Schumer's call to release oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to combat skyrocketing gas prices. We also dive into the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, where Senator Moreno advocates for "Main Street over Wall Street" to protect the American dream from corporate build-to-rent empires. Finally, we analyze Senator Wyden’s opposition to Lt. Gen. Joshua M. Rudd as NSA Director, focusing on critical debates over Fourth Amendment rights and digital privacy.

Congressional Record Analysis of the following dates:

March 9, 2026

https://www.congress.gov/congressional-record/browse-by-date

Bills

• H.R. 7860: A bill to amend the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to address fraudulent enrollments in the Exchanges.
• H.R. 7865: Provides direct refunds to taxpayers for increased consumer costs resulting from tariffs imposed without congressional authorization.
• H.R. 7867: Establishes standardized pathogen testing for infant formula products and manufacturing facilities.
• H.R. 7870: Requires various immigration enforcement reforms.
• H.R. 7873: A bill designed to promote the energy security of Taiwan.
• H.R. 7874: Prohibits states from distributing unsolicited mail-in ballots for federal elections.
• H.R. 7880: Prohibits federal interference with the interstate traffic of unpasteurized milk and milk products.
• H.R. 7881: The District of Columbia Juror Pay Parity Act, which aligns local juror pay with federal court rates.
• H.R. 7886: Grants financial regulators clawback authority over executive compensation for negligence leading to financial loss.
• H.R. 7744: The Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2026.
• H.R. 6644: The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, which seeks to increase housing supply and limit institutional investor dominance in the market.
• S. 4029: Reinforces the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act by establishing a 10-year limitations period for offenses.
• S. 4032: A bill to provide a gasoline tax holiday.