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
The White House announced on September 22, 2026, that its official mobile app reached the No. 1 ranking in the News category and the overall App Store Top 20, reporting two million downloads. The administration claimed the app allows users to access news “not filtered through networks that have spent years distorting the record of President Donald J. Trump.” Additionally, the White House reported the launch of TrumpTV, which it described as a “major success.” President Trump also addressed the United Nations, asserting he has achieved “historic results that have reshaped world order for America’s benefit.”
President Trump denounced reports alleging he intends to rename Ford’s Theatre as a “Ford’s Theatre Hoax,” characterizing the claim as a “ridiculous lie” and “FAKE NEWS.” He further labeled political opponents as “Degenerates and Losers” who he alleged participate in “never-ending, malicious falsehoods to try to discredit and demean.”
The Department of State launched the Andes-Atlantic Corridor with Argentina to modernize infrastructure, supported by a $7 billion “U.S.-Argentina Build the Future Framework” financing commitment. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a new visa restriction policy targeting individuals who facilitate “birth tourism,” stating the measure is intended to “defend the integrity of U.S. citizenship.” The Department of State also pledged $267 million in health assistance for the Ebola response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Department of War announced $230 million in grants for military infrastructure and awarded multiple contracts, including a $3.5 billion award for environmental and construction services. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. announced $51 million in awards to expand dental care for children with neurodevelopmental disorders and launched a Request for Information regarding deceased donor islet cell treatment regulations. The USTR announced Fiscal Year 2027 sugar tariff-rate quota allocations totaling 1,117,195 metric tons.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced the expansion of California’s Cap-and-Invest market and authorized the regulatory process to link it with Washington State. At a United Nations event, he criticized President Trump’s environmental record, calling him a “fossil fuel industry’s puppet.” Governor Newsom also named experts to advise on his AI executive order, including work on “kill switches” for AI models. Governor Wes Moore signed an executive order establishing a Maryland Data Center Task Force and announced plans to repeal a data center tax exemption. Governor Andy Beshear reported that his administration has invested $45.5 million in pediatric cancer research. Governor Tim Walz highlighted $410 million in state funding for the Destination Medical Center and appointed two new District Court Judges. Senator Jon Ossoff reported he is cosponsoring the bipartisan Clean Water Allotment Modernization Act of 2026.
OpenAI announced it will provide the Government of Ukraine access to its Daybreak program to protect civilian infrastructure from cyber attacks, with Head of National Security Policy Sasha Baker stating the initiative provides tools to “find and fix vulnerabilities.” OpenAI CEO Sam Altman addressed the United Nations Security Council, where he warned that companies must prioritize human control over competitive speed and stated, “We should not train models that we cannot make an extremely strong case that we will be able to keep under human control.”
On September 22, 2026, the Senate voted 52-43 to agree to cloture on the nomination of Angela Veronica Colmenero and 70-21 to agree to cloture on an amendment to S. 4668, a bill regarding student athlete rights. The Senate also passed H.R. 4467, regarding Vicksburg National Military Park, and H.R. 952, regarding federal land in Sacramento. The House of Representatives was not in session.
As of September 22, 2026, the White House announced its official mobile app reclaimed the No. 1 News ranking and reached the overall Top 20 on the App Store. With two million downloads, the White House claims Americans use the app to access news “not filtered through networks that have spent years distorting the record of President Donald J. Trump.” Additionally, the administration reported the launch of TrumpTV, featuring 24/7 streaming content available via the app, WhiteHouse.gov, and YouTube, describing it as a “major success.”
Reference: Original White House release
In his United Nations address, President Donald J. Trump asserted he has achieved “historic results that have reshaped world order for America’s benefit” and made the nation “safer and more prosperous.” The White House stated that Trump is holding the U.N. accountable following “years of weak and failed Democrat leadership under the Biden Administration that put America last.” According to the White House, Trump is “allowing America to WIN again” by protecting national interests, bolstering defense, and creating jobs, noting that “he’s only just begun.”
Reference: Original White House release
Trump denounced as a “ridiculous lie” and “FAKE NEWS” claims that he or the White House intend to affix his name to Ford’s Theatre, the site of President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. Characterizing the report as a “Ford’s Theatre Hoax,” Trump stated that “The Dumocrats suffer from serious Trump Derangement Syndrome.”
He further labeled these political opponents as “Degenerates and Losers” who fabricate “lie after lie.” According to Trump, this narrative is part of their “never-ending, malicious falsehoods to try to discredit and demean.”
Reference: https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump
Joint Statement on the Launch of the Andes-Atlantic Corridor
U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and Argentine Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno launched the Andes-Atlantic Corridor to modernize infrastructure linking Argentina’s economic sectors to Atlantic ports and Western markets. The initiative aims to facilitate public and private investment in transportation, energy, and digital infrastructure. The United States intends to utilize financing tools from the DFC, EXIM, and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency, while Argentina aims to strengthen legal and regulatory frameworks to attract foreign capital.
United States and Argentina Launch Andes-Atlantic Corridor Fact Sheet
The Andes-Atlantic Corridor is a G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment initiative designed to connect Argentina’s mining and energy basins to Atlantic ports. EXIM and Argentina signed the “U.S.-Argentina Build the Future Framework,” providing up to $7 billion in financing by 2027. U.S. agencies plan to advance projects that exclude “non-market actors” and utilize “trusted technology.” A U.S. delegation will visit Argentina in October 2026, and officials plan to host roadshows for U.S. companies in December 2026.
United States Pledges Additional Life-Saving Health Assistance in Response to Ebola Outbreak
The Department of State announced $267 million in additional health assistance for the Ebola response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This brings total U.S. contributions to $887 million, with the State Department providing over $780 million. The funding supports treatment units, burial teams, and surveillance efforts. The Department noted this assistance fulfills a G7 summit commitment and builds on a global health Memorandum of Understanding. The United States called on “capable nations to increase burden sharing” to address the crisis.
Secretary Rubio’s Meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar
Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar in New York. The officials discussed the U.S.-India strategic partnership and its role in the Indo-Pacific, as well as developments in the Middle East. Additionally, they reviewed potential sanctions against states engaging economically with Russia and Iran. Secretary Rubio stated the United States is “well-positioned to help regional partners address their energy security challenges.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced a new visa restriction policy under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act targeting individuals who facilitate “birth tourism.” The policy applies to owners of commercial networks, visa “fixers,” and medical providers who assist foreign nationals in obtaining U.S. citizenship for profit. Secretary Rubio stated the administration is taking these measures to “defend the integrity of U.S. citizenship, protect American public benefits and U.S. taxpayers from exploitation, and safeguard our national security.”
Secretary Rubio’s Meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov
Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. The discussion focused on the Russia-Ukraine war and the state of the U.S.-Russia bilateral relationship.
DoW Approves $230 Million in Grants Under the Defense Community Infrastructure Program
The Department of War announced 26 grants totaling $230 million for infrastructure projects supporting military installations. Assistant Secretary of War Dale Marks stated the funding aims to “strengthen military installations” and support national security. The program, which leverages $120 million in additional funding, covers projects ranging from airport runway improvements to education and utility facilities. The grants are part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Community Infrastructure Program, with $100 million sourced from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
The Department of War announced multiple contract awards on September 23, 2026. Thirty-four companies were awarded a combined $3.5 billion contract for environmental optimization and construction services through September 2034. Additionally, PTC Inc. received a $99,767,830 modification for Air Force supply chain analysis, and KAL Architects Inc. was awarded a $25,000,000 contract for architect and engineering services. Segue was awarded a $17,167,724 contract for the modernization and cloud migration of the Manpower Programming and Execution System.
HHS Invests $51 Million to Expand Dental Care for Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced $51 million in awards to 28 health centers to improve dental care for children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), each recipient will receive up to $2 million to develop evidence-based models, address barriers like sensory sensitivities, and improve workforce capacity. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. stated the goal is to “remove barriers to care, equip providers to better serve these children, and give families more options close to home.”
HHS Seeks Public Input to Improve Access to Deceased Donor Islet Cell Treatments
HHS released a Request for Information regarding the regulation of deceased donor islet cell products used to treat type 1 diabetes. The FDA currently regulates these as biological products; the agency is evaluating if this framework limits patient access or if classifying them as organs—shifting oversight to HRSA and the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network—would be effective. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. stated HHS is examining if regulations “unnecessarily stand between patients and these potentially life-changing treatments.” Comments are due by November 8, 2026.
USTR Announces Fiscal Year 2027 WTO Tariff-Rate Quota Allocations for Raw Cane Sugar
The USTR announced country-specific in-quota allocations for the Fiscal Year 2027 tariff-rate quota (TRQ) for imported raw cane sugar, totaling 1,117,195 metric tons raw value (MTRV). This total meets the minimum U.S. commitment under the WTO Agreement. Following a July 2026 notice for 1,061,202 MTRV, the USTR is now allocating the remaining 55,993 MTRV. Imports may enter the United States starting October 1, 2026, provided they are accompanied by certificates of quota eligibility and, for net importers, verified certificates of origin.
Governor Newsom announced plans to expand California’s Cap-and-Invest carbon market. He also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Finland to foster economic cooperation in clean technology and innovation. Additionally, the Governor held meetings with Australian officials to strengthen existing partnerships regarding grid innovation and energy storage. Newsom stated that by collaborating globally, California can build a “future that is more affordable, more secure, and more prosperous.” The state’s Cap-and-Invest program has reportedly generated $37 billion in climate investments over thirteen years.
Governor Newsom calls out Trump’s climate failure at the United Nations
At a United Nations event, Governor Newsom criticized President Trump’s environmental record, describing him as a “fossil fuel industry’s puppet” and an “invasive species.” Newsom highlighted California’s economic growth, asserting that the state has reduced greenhouse gas emissions while growing its GDP by 40% since 2019. He argued that California’s transition to clean energy proves that climate action and economic prosperity are compatible. Newsom affirmed that California will continue its climate policies “no matter who occupies the White House.”
Governor Newsom named a group of technology and policy experts to advise on his recent executive order regarding artificial intelligence safety. The group will examine proposals such as embedding independent third-party monitors within frontier AI companies and developing emergency “kill switches” for AI models. Newsom stated his administration is not “waiting around” to address AI risks. Appointees include Jason Goldman, Gillian Hadfield, Alondra Nelson, and Rob Reich, who will provide guidance on independent verification, auditing, and institutional governance mechanisms for frontier AI.
Governor Newsom authorized the process to link California’s Cap-and-Invest program with Washington State’s carbon market. The Governor completed the legally required findings, enabling the California Air Resources Board to begin the public regulatory process. This linkage aims to create a more stable market for cutting climate pollution and funding community investments. Governor Ferguson of Washington stated that “linkage isn’t just good climate policy — it’s smart economics.” The program previously linked with Québec in 2014, allowing for the mutual acceptance of compliance instruments.
Governor Moore Celebrates Maryland’s Feature on Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel List
Governor Moore announced Maryland’s inclusion on Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel 2027” list, citing the state’s history, nature, and culture. In 2025, the state hosted 47.4 million visitors, supporting local economies. Maryland Department of Commerce Secretary Harry Coker Jr. stated the recognition underscores the diversity of the visitor economy. Managing Director of the Maryland Office of Tourism Cassandra Vanhooser noted the state’s offerings connect travelers to local experiences. The state plans to highlight its railroad heritage for the 2027 anniversary of American railroading.
Governor Moore signed an executive order creating a Maryland Data Center Task Force and establishing development standards for projects of 25 megawatts or more. The task force will issue public project determinations and manage a Data Center Dashboard for reporting power and water usage. The Governor also announced plans to seek repeal of the 2020 Data Center Sales and Use Tax Exemption. Gov. Moore stated the order aims to ensure “Marylanders do not foot the bill” while asserting that federal policy has allowed “Big Tech” insufficient regulation.
Gov. Beshear and First Lady Recognize Kentucky’s Leading Role in Fight Against Childhood Cancer
During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Gov. Andy Beshear and First Lady Britainy Beshear announced that the administration has invested $45.5 million in pediatric cancer research and family support. The Kentucky Pediatric Cancer Research Trust Fund has sponsored 62 projects at the University of Louisville and the University of Kentucky since 2015. Gov. Beshear stated, “Team Kentucky has stepped up, providing more than $45 million in state funding during my administration for pediatric cancer research and support for families going through this.”
Daily Public Schedule: Wednesday, September 23, 2026
Governor Pritzker has no public events scheduled for Wednesday, September 23, 2026.
Governor Tim Walz visited Rochester’s Destination Medical Center (DMC) to highlight eight years of investments in healthcare and scientific innovation. The DMC, a public-private partnership, utilizes $410 million in state funding to support infrastructure and economic growth. Governor Walz described the partnership as a “win across the board,” emphasizing Minnesota’s role as an “internationally recognized hub for academic medicine.” Officials noted that the initiative aims to build a global biomedical ecosystem and bolster Minnesota’s reputation for high-quality healthcare and business expansion.
Governor Walz Appoints Jeremy Blackwelder and Aaron Zurek to Fill Fifth Judicial District Vacancies
Governor Tim Walz appointed Jeremy Blackwelder and Aaron Zurek as District Court Judges in the Fifth Judicial District. Blackwelder, an assistant public defender and former police officer, will replace the late Tricia B. Zimmer. Zurek, currently the Chief Public Defender for the district, will replace Gregory J. Anderson. Governor Walz praised Blackwelder’s “unique perspective” and described Zurek as a “brilliant legal mind” committed to treating individuals with dignity. The appointments cover judicial seats chambered in Ivanhoe, Marshall, and Mankato.
Sen. Ossoff Working Across the Aisle to Improve Sewer and Stormwater Infrastructure Across Georgia
Sen. Ossoff is cosponsoring the bipartisan Clean Water Allotment Modernization Act of 2026 to update the EPA’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund formula to better reflect state population and infrastructure needs. Sen. Ossoff stated, “Investing in Georgia’s sewer and stormwater infrastructure means protecting our families, homes, and communities.” The Senator also highlighted recent Federal funding secured for stormwater projects in East Point, South Fulton, and Hampton, and noted the implementation of his Georgia Stormwater Management Act, which provided $3,120,000 for the South Columbus Water Resources facility.
OpenAI extends cyber access to Ukraine for civilian defense
OpenAI announced it will provide the Government of Ukraine access to its Daybreak program to assist in defending civilian infrastructure against cyber attacks. In collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Transformation, the initiative allows Ukrainian teams to use AI tools for identifying software vulnerabilities and testing fixes. Sasha Baker, Head of National Security Policy, stated, “We want to put more capable tools in their hands to help them find and fix vulnerabilities and protect the critical networks people depend on.”
Sam Altman’s remarks at the United Nations Security Council
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman addressed the UN Security Council regarding AI, balancing its potential for “creativity and discovery” with risks of “upheaval and disarray.” Altman emphasized that companies must prioritize human control and safety over competitive speed. He identified two primary risks: losing control to autonomous systems and the concentration of power in too few hands. Altman stated, “We should not train models that we cannot make an extremely strong case that we will be able to keep under human control.”
Covers the 2026-09-22 session — the Congressional Record is published with a one-day delay.
The Senate conducted routine proceedings and debated the Protect College Sports Act. The chamber also moved toward confirming a judicial nominee and approved several ceremonial and land-related measures.
Angela Veronica Colmenero — nomination to be United States District Judge for the Southern District of Texas [cloture agreed to by 52 yeas to 43 nays (Vote No. EX. 239)]
S. 4668 — bill to protect student athlete rights and promote fair intercollegiate competition [cloture on Amendment No. 6776 agreed to by 70 yeas to 21 nays (Vote No. EX. 240)]
S. Res. 870 — resolution recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month [agreed to]
S. Res. 871 — resolution supporting the goals of National Purple Heart Recognition Day [agreed to]
H.R. 4467 — bill to modify the Vicksburg National Military Park boundary [passed]
H.R. 952 — bill to convey federal land interest in Sacramento, California [passed]
The House of Representatives was not in session on September 22, 2026.
None — The House was not in session [N/A]
No committee meetings were held.
The Senate will convene at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, to continue consideration of the Protect College Sports Act and vote on the confirmation of Angela Veronica Colmenero. The House will meet in pro forma session at 2:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 24, 2026.
Reference: Congressional Daily Digest — 2026-09-22