House Democrats walked out of a closed-door briefing with Attorney General Pam Bondi, criticizing the session as a “fake hearing” due to Bondi’s refusal to commit to complying with a subpoena and the lack of transparency. Republicans defended the briefing and accused Democrats of staging a political protest, while tensions flared between members during the session. The dispute highlights ongoing bipartisan concerns over the Justice Department’s handling and release of sensitive Jeffrey Epstein-related documents, with Bondi defending the department’s efforts amid controversy.
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House Democrats have introduced a discharge petition to force a vote on funding key Department of Homeland Security agencies, excluding immigration enforcement bodies like ICE and CBP, amid a partial government shutdown now in its second month. The effort reflects Democratic demands for immigration enforcement reforms following recent controversial incidents, while Republicans remain skeptical and cite recent immigration funding legislation. The shutdown has severely impacted TSA operations, causing staffing shortages, increased wait times at major airports, and resignations among TSA workers due to missed paychecks.
Senator Markwayne Mullin appeared before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee for a confirmation hearing to become the next Secretary of Homeland Security, facing scrutiny over past remarks and concerns about his readiness to lead amid ongoing departmental challenges. While Republican supporters praised Mullin’s experience and work ethic, Democrats expressed reservations about his ability to address issues such as immigration enforcement reforms, funding impasses, and agency misconduct. The committee’s recommendation will move Mullin’s nomination to the full Senate, where a simple majority vote is needed for confirmation.
Top U.S. intelligence officials, including Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, testified before the Senate Intelligence Committee amid heightened tensions following the U.S. military campaign against Iran, which was justified by the Trump administration as a response to an imminent threat despite intelligence reports indicating Iran was not actively pursuing nuclear weapons. The hearing occurred shortly after the resignation of Joe Kent, head of the National Counterterrorism Center, who criticized the administration’s rationale for war, while lawmakers remain divided over calls for greater transparency and public hearings on the conflict. As the debate over oversight continues, Democratic lawmakers push for more disclosure, whereas many Republicans argue that classified briefings suffice to protect national security.
Illinois voters participated in the 2026 primary elections on March 17, with key races including the U.S. Senate seat, where Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton won the Democratic nomination to face Republican Don Tracy. The gubernatorial primary set up a rematch between incumbent JB Pritzker and Republican Darren Bailey, while several closely contested Democratic congressional primaries in the Chicago area highlighted ideological divides, particularly over Israel policy. Notable outcomes included Melissa Bean’s political comeback in the 8th District and tight races in the 7th and 9th Districts, reflecting shifting dynamics within Illinois politics ahead of the general elections.
The Senate overwhelmingly approved the bipartisan 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a comprehensive bill aimed at increasing affordable housing by streamlining construction, easing regulations, and limiting institutional investors from buying single-family homes. Sponsored by Senators Warren and Scott, the legislation includes grants, coordinated environmental reviews, and provisions to curb Wall Street’s influence in the housing market, though some opposition remains over certain investor restrictions. While the bill passed the Senate decisively, its future in the House is uncertain due to differences in versions, political opposition, and competing legislative priorities, even as housing affordability remains a critical issue for Americans.
President Donald Trump is withholding his endorsement in the Texas Republican Senate primary between Sen. John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton until the controversial SAVE America Act, which imposes stricter voting requirements and includes additional anti-transgender provisions, is passed. This linkage has caused tension within the GOP, with Senate Majority Leader John Thune warning against tying political endorsements to legislative outcomes and expressing doubts about the bill’s prospects. The closely contested primary reflects broader party divisions between establishment figures and the MAGA base, with Trump’s endorsement seen as pivotal to the race’s outcome and the GOP’s 2024 strategy.
Voters in Georgia's 14th Congressional District are participating in a special election to fill the U.S. House seat vacated by Marjorie Taylor Greene, featuring 17 candidates from multiple parties. The district is a Republican stronghold, with key contenders including Trump-endorsed Republican Clay Fuller and Democrat Shawn Harris, who has raised significant funds and received high-profile endorsements. If no candidate wins a majority, a runoff is scheduled for April 7, with the winner serving a short term before facing another election in May.