1. Overview
2. White House News
3. Truth Social Posts
4. Government Department News
5. Selected Democratic Officials
6. AI & Tech Company News
7. Congressional Watch
President Donald J. Trump signed five proclamations under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 to ban certain Canadian products and modify duties, citing Canada’s “increased discrimination against U.S. commerce.” Additionally, the President signed an executive order to modernize data sharing between the Departments of War and Veterans Affairs to expedite benefits, and a separate order amending the Defense Production Act to expand the authorities of the Secretaries of the Interior and Energy regarding national energy resources. On the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, the White House reported that President Trump honored first responders and survivors.
President Donald J. Trump defended his post-9/11 visits to the World Trade Center site on Truth Social, characterizing media reports alleging his absence as “fake” and “a lie.” He further claimed he never sought to speak at the New York ceremony and had been requested to attend the Pentagon event instead. Regarding international politics, Trump observed that the “Populist Party in Germany” experienced electoral gains due to citizen dissatisfaction with immigration policies. He also criticized CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins, describing her panel discussions as “FICTION AND LIES.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio presided over the signing of two memorandums of understanding with Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella regarding critical minerals and civil nuclear cooperation, stating the agreements represent a “new cooperation stage.” Secretary Rubio also extended independence day congratulations to Tajikistan and Andorra. The State Department announced that the U.S. sanctioned 36 entities and individuals under “Operation Economic Outcast” for supporting Iran’s aviation sector. Separately, the Department of War announced a $4.8 billion contract with Northrop Grumman and held a bilateral defense framework meeting with Mongolia. The Department of Health and Human Services announced $383.4 million in behavioral health grants and $225 million in Head Start supplemental awards.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore celebrated the opening of a new Northrop Grumman Propulsion Innovation Center and announced the relocation of the Founding Farmers headquarters to Prince George’s County. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear participated in the groundbreaking for a $250 million U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company manufacturing expansion. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker commemorated the anniversary of the federal “Operation Midway Blitz,” which he described as an “excessive federal immigration enforcement operation,” and participated in the opening of Illinois State University’s new College of Engineering. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced that the Minnesota Free School Meals Program has served nearly 450 million meals since its inception.
Palantir Technologies Inc. announced a partnership with Nebius Group N.V. to provide Nebius’s AI-native infrastructure to Palantir’s commercial customers. Palantir designated Nebius as a preferred sovereign AI infrastructure partner, with plans to integrate their technology into the Palantir enterprise perimeter. CEO Alex Karp stated that the combination of Palantir’s ontology and Nebius’s infrastructure will “undergird the sovereignty our partners are demanding.”
No Congressional records were found for September 7, 2026.
President Donald J. Trump signed five Proclamations under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 to ban certain Canadian products and modify existing tariffs. The White House stated these measures address “Canada’s increased discrimination against U.S. commerce” and “additional retaliation.” The administration claims the President is “taking decisive and appropriate action” to “protect American farmers, manufacturers, and workers.” Additionally, the White House reports President Trump intends to use available tools to “restore reciprocity in our bilateral trade relationships” and support American economic prosperity and national security.
Reference: Original White House release
President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation modifying duties on Canadian goods, citing Canada’s failure to address discriminatory motor vehicle tariffs after allegedly having “reneged on its commitment.” Citing recommendations from senior executive branch officials who believe adjustments “better serve the public interest,” the President directed that specific Canadian products remain subject to a 50 percent ad valorem duty, while others are removed from that scope. These modifications, effective September 15, 2026, are intended to offset the burden on U.S. commerce from Canada’s trade practices.
Reference: Original White House release
The White House has proclaimed an import ban on certain Canadian alcoholic beverages, effective September 29, 2026. President Donald J. Trump states this action addresses Canada’s failure to remove “discrimination against the commerce of the United States” regarding alcoholic beverages. According to senior executive branch officials, Canada “maintained the discrimination and announced additional retaliation.” President Trump determined that excluding these products is consistent with the interests of the United States, as Canada has “maintained or increased the discriminations against the commerce of the United States.”
Reference: Original White House release
President Donald J. Trump states that Canada maintained “discrimination” against U.S. dairy commerce after the implementation of Proclamation 11047. Citing recommendations from senior executive branch officials who claim Canada “reneged on its commitment,” the President announced an import ban on specific Canadian products effective September 29, 2026. This action follows the lapse of a temporary duty suspension. The President determines the ban is consistent with U.S. public interests and directs the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection to implement necessary enforcement measures.
Reference: Original White House release
President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation modifying duties on Canadian goods following Canada’s failure to address discriminatory policies against U.S. alcoholic beverages. Asserting that Canada “reneged on its commitment” to resolve these issues, the President mandated that specific Canadian products remain subject to a 50 percent ad valorem duty, while others are exempted. Per the White House, these adjustments better serve the public interest and offset trade disadvantages. These modifications take effect at 12:01 a.m. eastern time on September 15, 2026.
Reference: Original White House release
President Donald J. Trump proclaimed an import ban on certain Canadian products, effective September 29, 2026. The White House stated that Canada “reneged on its commitment” to remove discriminatory motor vehicle tariffs. While the White House noted that senior executive branch officials believe an import ban “is consistent with the interests of the United States,” Canada allegedly “maintained the discrimination.” Consequently, the President directed the exclusion of specific goods, noting that this action “is required by the public interests, and will serve the public interest.”
Reference: Original White House release
President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to modernize data management and sharing between the Departments of War and Veterans Affairs to “expedite veterans’ access to benefits,” according to the White House. The White House stated that President Trump is “removing the inefficiencies and delays that hinder our service members and veterans from receiving the benefits and support they deserve.” Additionally, the White House claimed that President Trump “dramatically expanded veterans’ access to healthcare, education, and job opportunities” to provide “life-changing support and benefits.”
Reference: Original White House release
The White House ordered the Secretary of War and Secretary of Veterans Affairs to rectify “outdated and unwieldy records management” hindering veteran transitions. Within 180 days, the departments must implement systems for permanent records sharing, deploy AI-driven digital tools for benefits applications, and ensure interoperability in IT contracts. Additionally, the Secretary of War must update workforce programs to connect departing service members with open jobs or training. These measures aim to ensure veterans “promptly receive the benefits and services to which they are entitled.”
Reference: Original White House release
The White House issued an executive order on September 8, 2026, amending Executive Order 13603 regarding national defense resources. The order expands the delegated authority under the Defense Production Act, allowing the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Energy to exercise authority independently over all forms of energy. It establishes procedures for resolving disputes between these secretaries via the National Energy Dominance Council, with additional involvement from the National Security Council and the Department of War if national defense infrastructure or military operations are implicated.
Reference: Original White House release
President Donald J. Trump honored Americans who responded to the September 11, 2001, attacks alongside first responders, Gold Star families, and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. The White House reported that a 21-foot steel beam from the South Tower was present as a “living reminder of the courage that rose from the ruins.” On the 25th anniversary of the attacks, President Trump and Vice President JD Vance plan to visit the sites to join the nation in “honoring the families who still bear that loss.”
Reference: Original White House release
Trump defended his post-9/11 visits to the World Trade Center site, stating he arrived “shortly thereafter” with construction workers and provided video clips as evidence. He dismissed allegations from New York Magazine and reporter Maggie Hagerman regarding his absence at the site and his attendance at the Pentagon instead, asserting that “Politicians and public officials are not permitted to deliver speeches or remarks” at the official New York ceremony. Trump characterized these reports as “fake” and “a lie,” claiming he never sought to speak in New York and had been requested to attend the Pentagon event, while Vice President Vance represented the administration in New York. He further demanded a retraction from Hagerman and the magazine, describing the media as “liars and scoundrels” who are “angry, and sick, over the fact that I won the Presidential Election three times!”
Regarding international affairs, Trump observed that the “Populist Party in Germany” experienced electoral gains because citizens were “tired of the absolutely horrible Immigration rules and regulations.”
Separately, Trump criticized CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins, alleging her panel discussions were “FICTION AND LIES” and suggesting the network is “fading FAST” in television ratings. He concluded the post by noting his upcoming appearance at the Republican National Convention.
Reference: https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Colombian President Abelardo De La Espriella presided over the signing of two memorandums of understanding in Barranquilla. The agreements establish a framework for securing supply chains in critical minerals and rare earths, and initiate strategic civil nuclear cooperation. Secretary Rubio stated the agreements represent a “new cooperation stage” following a period of distance between the two nations, emphasizing that the partnership is essential for addressing shared security threats posed by transnational criminal groups and fostering regional prosperity.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended congratulations to Tajikistan on its 35th anniversary of independence, occurring September 9. Secretary Rubio noted the mutual interest between the United States and Tajikistan in maintaining a “sovereign, secure, and prosperous Central Asia.” The statement highlighted ongoing cooperation regarding border security and counterterrorism, and identified Tajikistan’s upcoming hosting of the B5+1 Forum as an opportunity to expand regional trade, investment, and economic ties with American businesses.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Colombian Foreign Minister Omar Bula signed two arrangements in Barranquilla to advance cooperation in critical minerals and civil nuclear sectors. According to the State Department, these initiatives aim to “reinvigorate the over 200-year U.S.-Colombia partnership” and restore the relationship as a “linchpin of security and economic cooperation” within the hemisphere.
Operation Economic Outcast Grounds Iran’s Aviation Sector
The United States sanctioned 36 entities and individuals for supporting Iran’s aviation sector, an action taken under “Operation Economic Outcast.” Spokesman Thomas “Tommy” Pigott stated the sector facilitates global terrorism and proliferation. Following an August 24, 2026, Treasury Department determination, the U.S. is designating the remaining active Iranian airlines. Sanctions also target firms providing sales and cargo services to Mahan Air. These measures, pursuant to E.O. 13224 and E.O. 13902, are intended to isolate the Iranian regime and disrupt its “financial lifelines.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio issued a statement celebrating Andorra’s National Day, honoring the patron saint, Our Lady of Meritxell. Secretary Rubio affirmed the U.S. commitment to Andorra’s national sovereignty and highlighted recent momentum in bilateral relations. The statement noted Andorra’s collaboration with American technology companies to improve digital infrastructure and financial security. The United States expressed an intent to build upon this foundation to increase investment and business opportunities.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio with José Manuel Acevedo of RCN
In an interview with RCN, Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the restoration of U.S.-Colombia relations, which he characterized as having been “damaged” over the last four years. Secretary Rubio stated that security is the “most important responsibility” of any government and reiterated his commitment to assisting Colombia in combating transnational criminal gangs and cartels. He described the current Colombian president as a leader with “tremendous enthusiasm” and “vision,” noting that both nations are moving toward a stage of expanded economic and security cooperation.
On September 8, 2026, Deputy Assistant Secretary of War Alvaro Smith and Major General Gankhuyag Davagdorj met to conduct the annual U.S.-Mongolia Bilateral Defense Framework. The officials established a roadmap to increase Mongolian defense spending over five years and discussed enhancing military capabilities, expanding exercises, and strengthening Mongolia’s defense industrial base. DASW Smith characterized Mongolia’s “Strategic Third Neighbor Partnership” as vital and recognized the nation’s contributions to the Board of Peace and the Haiti Gang Suppression Force.
The Department of War announced multiple contracts, including a $4.8 billion award to Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. for Common Infrared Countermeasures and a $74.7 million award to Conti Federal Services LLC for a B-21 program hangar at Whiteman Air Force Base. Other awards included $496.8 million to Creation Gardens Inc. for food supplies, $26.9 million to Dominion Privatization Virginia for electrical infrastructure, $12.5 million to Stantec Consulting Services Inc. for engineering, $11.5 million to Peckham Vocational Industries Inc. for caps, and additional aircraft-related component contracts.
Remarks by Undersecretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby at the Ukraine Defense Contact Group
Undersecretary Elbridge Colby stated that European allies are assuming a leading role in conventional defense and support for Ukraine, a transition he described as “producing tangible results.” Emphasizing a “denial defense” strategy, Colby urged Europe to sustain support for Ukraine while accelerating rearmament and reindustrialization to prepare for a “protracted conflict.” He noted that while the Department of War “cannot predict when this tragic war will end,” the United States remains committed to supporting allies through initiatives like PURL and JUMPSTART.
HHS announced four senior FDA appointments to prioritize innovation, health security, and medicine access. Jared Seehafer was named Deputy Commissioner for Technology and Artificial Intelligence. Dr. Michael Davis will serve as Director of the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, while Karim Mikhail was appointed Director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. Additionally, Dr. Bret Koplow was selected as Director of the Center for Tobacco Products. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. stated these leaders will “confront our nation’s most serious health challenges.”
HHS Awards More Than $380 Million to Strengthen America’s Behavioral Health System on 988 Day
HHS announced $383.4 million in grants to bolster behavioral health treatment, prevention, and crisis response. Of this total, $252 million is allocated for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and related services, $81.4 million for substance use treatment, and $50 million for mental health initiatives. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. stated the investment aims to “help people get effective care when they need it.” SAMHSA Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Christopher D. Carroll noted the funding will “strengthen access to treatment and recovery services.”
HHS Awards Over $225 Million to Improve Head Start Nutrition, Facilities and Services
HHS announced $225 million in Head Start supplemental awards to support nutrition, facility improvements, and operational needs. This includes $89 million for nutrition programs, $88 million for facility renovations and repairs, and $47 million for one-time needs like technology and transportation. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. described the funding as an effort to “put prevention first” and “Make America Healthy Again.” ACF Assistant Secretary Alex J. Adams stated the funds aim to return the program to its core mission of providing a “healthy foundation.”
Treasury Grounds Iranian Airlines with Sweeping Sanctions Action
On September 8, 2026, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned 36 targets for supporting Iran’s aviation sector under Operation Economic Outcast. The action includes sanctioning all remaining Iranian airlines and targeting front companies and intermediaries. Additionally, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) issued an alert for financial institutions regarding aviation procurement networks. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent stated that the action aims to “sever the economic lifelines that sustain the Iranian regime.”
Ambassador Jamieson Greer stated that President Trump used Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 to ban certain Canadian products and modify July 20 tariff actions. Ambassador Greer characterized Canada’s choice to “embark on senseless retaliation against the United States” as the reason for these measures. President Trump also directed the USTR and GSA to remove $50 billion of Canadian-origin products from GSA Multiple Award Schedules. The administration stated these actions aim to defend American workers and “restore reciprocity in our bilateral trade relationships.”
Governor Moore attended the opening of Northrop Grumman’s 57,000-square-foot Propulsion Innovation Center in Elkton. The $100 million investment supports 250 high-skilled jobs and increases the site’s solid rocket motor manufacturing capacity by 25%. Northrop Grumman Vice President Jenna Paukstis stated the facility “accelerates delivery of survivable, solid and air-breathing hypersonic and tactical missile propulsion solutions to the warfighter.” Since 2018, Maryland has provided $14.1 million in economic development incentives to support the site, which contributes to the state’s aerospace and defense industry.
Governor Moore Announces New Maryland Headquarters for Founding Farmers
Governor Moore announced that Founding Farmers moved its headquarters from D.C. to a 17,000-square-foot facility in District Heights, Prince George’s County. The company, which is majority-owned by American family farmers, expects to create 90 new full-time jobs by the end of 2027. To assist with costs, the company is eligible for $750,000 in combined conditional loans from the state and county. Co-founder Dan Simons stated, “The employee base is strong, the long-term investment thesis in the area is compelling.”
Gov. Beshear Joins U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Co. To Break Ground on New Facility in Hopkinsville
Gov. Andy Beshear joined U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company (USSTC) officials to break ground on a $250 million manufacturing expansion in Christian County. The project, which involves new machinery and facilities, is expected to create over 200 jobs, effectively doubling the company’s local workforce. USSTC president and CEO Michael Brace stated the project is “a statement of confidence in the people of this region.” Local officials emphasized the investment’s role in supporting the regional agricultural economy and the community’s skilled workforce.
Gov. Pritzker Marks One Year Since Administration Launched Operation Midway Blitz
Governor Pritzker commemorated the anniversary of the Trump Administration’s “Operation Midway Blitz,” describing it as an “excessive federal immigration enforcement operation” that caused “fear, chaos, and disruption.” The Governor cited a Great Cities Institute analysis stating the operation resulted in $1.26 billion in lost commercial activity in Cook County. Pritzker established the Illinois Accountability Commission to document federal conduct, which released a final report in April 2026 alleging unconstitutional force and unlawful arrests. Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton characterized the federal response as a “campaign of terror.”
Gov. Pritzker Cuts Ribbon at Illinois State University’s New College of Engineering
Governor Pritzker attended the opening of Illinois State University’s new College of Engineering at Campus East. The 392,000-square-foot facility is designed to support 700 new students and includes laboratories, research space, and a makerspace. ISU President Aondover Tarhule stated the acquisition saves the university $150 million in construction costs. A solar energy system, slated for completion in summer 2027, is expected to provide 85% of the property’s energy. The college admitted its first cohort in fall 2025 and a second in fall 2026.
Daily Public Schedule: Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Governor Pritzker’s public schedule for September 8, 2026, included a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Illinois State University College of Engineering at Campus East in Bloomington.
Governor Walz Greets Students and Serves Meals on the First Day of School
On September 8, 2026, Governor Tim Walz visited Greenvale Park Elementary in Northfield and Hoover Elementary in Coon Rapids to mark the start of the 2026-2027 school year. Joined by Minnesota Department of Education Commissioner Willie Jett, the Governor participated in student arrivals and served meals. Governor Walz stated, “There is no better way to begin than by welcoming new students, celebrating the educators and school communities who support them, and making sure every child in Minnesota has the nutritious meals they need to learn, grow, and thrive.”
On First Day of School, Governor Walz Celebrates 450 Million Free School Meals Served
Governor Tim Walz announced that the Minnesota Free School Meals Program has served nearly 450 million meals since its 2023 launch, including 150 million in the program’s third year. The program reportedly saves families an average of $1,000 per student annually. Commissioner Willie Jett stated the program “removes stigma, keeps money in families’ pockets, and gives students the confidence to succeed.” The Governor noted that the initiative remains a “lasting investment in Minnesota’s future,” building upon a 2023 budget that funded public education and childcare expansions.
Palantir and Nebius Partner to Deliver a Complete Sovereign AI Stack to Palantir Customers
Palantir Technologies Inc. and Nebius Group N.V. have formed a partnership to provide Nebius’s AI-native infrastructure to Palantir’s commercial customers. Palantir has designated Nebius as its preferred sovereign AI infrastructure partner, with plans to integrate Nebius compute and inference endpoints into the Palantir enterprise perimeter. According to Alex Karp, co-founder and CEO of Palantir, “Our ontology and their infrastructure will undergird the sovereignty our partners are demanding.” The collaboration aims to enable organizations to train models on proprietary data while retaining control.
Covers the 2026-09-07 session — the Congressional Record is published with a one-day delay.
No Congressional Record found for 2026-09-07.