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 President Donald J. Trump signed executive orders to “reinvigorate, protect, and expand America’s hunting heritage” and to “modernize Federal fisheries management.” The administration stated these actions remove “heavy-handed restrictions” on public lands and offshore waters while prioritizing American fishing and hunting interests. Separately, the White House withdrew five nominations previously sent to the Senate, recognized National Hispanic Heritage Month, and published a list of 250 claimed victories for the faith community, asserting President Trump is the “most pro-faith, pro-life, and pro-religious liberty president in American history.”
Donald Trump stated on Truth Social that the Fraud Task Force led by Vice President JD Vance is “got the fraudsters running for shelter.” Regarding legislative issues, Trump said he looks forward to passing new agricultural legislation and expressed support for a bipartisan Senate vote on college sports name, image, and likeness (NIL) policies, characterizing current rules as “out of control.” Additionally, Trump announced “major progress” toward a U.S. Army base in Poland and extended endorsements to Congressmen John McGuire and Rob Wittman and Congresswoman Jen Kiggans.
The State Department announced that Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys signed a memorandum of understanding on critical minerals, with Secretary Rubio emphasizing the need for secure supply chains. The State Department also designated 11 actors linked to Cuba’s military-industrial complex and nickel sector under E.O. 14404, asserting these entities support a “corrupt military elite.” Additionally, the Treasury Department and State Department designated entities and individuals for facilitating Iranian sanctions evasion via digital currency networks. The Department of War announced a framework agreement with Lockheed Martin to increase AIM-260 missile production, while the Defense Health Agency issued new clinical guidance regarding testosterone deficiency. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. announced a new ARPA-H program for autism care and sought public input on electromagnetic fields.
Governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed “Constitution Day and Citizenship Day,” launched a $100 million state-funded Disaster Rebuilding Assistance Program, and criticized President Trump’s proposal to send $5,000 checks to Americans. Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez announced that the House of Representatives passed the Water Resources Development Act of 2026, which includes $351 million for flood infrastructure in The Bronx and Queens. Governor Gretchen Whitmer is leading an investment mission to Taiwan, while Governor Andy Beshear announced that Kentucky secured $10.4 million in FEMA reimbursements. Governor Wes Moore requested SBA assistance for businesses impacted by a structural emergency in Anne Arundel County, and the Minnesota Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in the Tenth Judicial District.
Anthropic published a proposal for new metrics to monitor the pace of frontier AI development, including a prototype “Anthropic R&D Automation Index.” The company stated the tools aim to provide public visibility into how AI models are built and announced plans to utilize independent third-party evaluators to monitor safety practices and AI involvement in research, noting that recursive self-improvement is a critical area for observation.
The Congressional Watch has no records for 2026-09-16.
President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to “expand access to America’s public lands and waterways,” recruit new hunters, and support wild game populations, according to the White House. The White House states that President Trump is “cutting red tape, rolling back restrictions, and expanding hunting opportunities for Americans.” Furthermore, the White House claims the administration is “reigning in government overreach” by “restoring access to Federal lands” while simultaneously “conserving and protecting America’s natural resources” to promote the country’s hunting heritage.
Reference: Original White House release
President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to “modernize Federal fisheries management, empower recreational industries, and eliminate unnecessary restrictions on American boaters and anglers.” According to the White House, President Trump intends to remove restrictions for “saltwater anglers, offshore boaters, and charter operators” to support domestic outdoor recreation, American jobs, and coastal economies. The White House states this action is “fulfilling his commitment to revitalizing the Nation’s maritime economy, reversing federal overreach, and prioritizing American fishing interests.”
Reference: Original White House release
The White House issued an executive order on September 17, 2026, to modernize Federal fisheries management by shifting focus from restricting access to “actively empowering affiliated industries.” The administration intends to elevate the marine recreational fishing industry in Federal decision-making, improve data collection accuracy by phasing out “antiquated” mail-in surveys, and streamline permitting processes. The order directs the Secretary of Commerce to review National Standards Guidelines, establish an Interagency Shark and Pinniped Depredation Task Force, and create a Federal Outer Continental Shelf Reef-in-Place Program.
Reference: Original White House release
The White House issued an executive order to “reinvigorate, protect, and expand America’s hunting heritage.” Citing “regulatory overreach” and “heavy-handed restrictions,” the administration directed federal agencies to expand recreational access to public lands, allow traditional ammunition, and prioritize citizen access to river lotteries. The order tasks the Secretaries of Labor and Education with clarifying funding for hunter education, instructs the Department of Veterans Affairs to support outdoor programs, and directs the expansion of game species populations through coordination with state agencies.
Reference: Original White House release
The White House sent five withdrawals to the Senate on January 13, 2026. The nominees included Jeffrey Anderson for Representative to the Council of the International Civil Aviation Organization, John Grunewald II for the Farm Credit Administration Board, and Richard Schroyer for Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security. Additionally, the White House withdrew the nominations of Heidi Semann for Inspector General of the Department of Education and Robert Stebbins for Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the United States International Development Finance Corporation.
Reference: Original White House release
During National Hispanic Heritage Month, the White House honors Hispanic Americans, stating their “strength, character, and devotion” contribute to making America the “greatest and most prosperous Nation.” The White House highlights their roles in the military, government, and various professions. The administration reaffirms its “unwavering commitment to defending these enduring values of faith, family, and freedom.” Additionally, the White House reports that The Working Families Tax Cuts Act aims to help citizens “thrive, prosper, and achieve the American Dream” through tax relief and new investment accounts.
Reference: Original White House release
The White House states that President Donald J. Trump “made history” for the faith community by “reversing the catastrophic policies of the previous administration.” The White House asserts that President Trump is the “most pro-faith, pro-life, and pro-religious liberty president in American history,” citing 250 reasons, including that he “PROTECTED RELIGIOUS LIBERTY,” “DEFENDED HOUSES OF WORSHIP,” “SAVED WOMEN’S SPORTS,” and “ENDED THE WEAPONIZATION OF GOVERNMENT.” Additionally, the White House claims he “STRENGTHENED OUR MILITARY,” “SUPPORTED ISRAEL,” and “UPHELD PARENTAL RIGHTS” while “ENDING DEI” to restore “FAIRNESS FOR ALL AMERICANS.”
Reference: Original White House release
Trump commended Andrew Ferguson for his recent media appearance, stating that the Fraud Task Force, led by Vice President JD Vance, has “got the fraudsters running for shelter” and is securing billions of dollars in recovered funds along with “LONG PRISON SENTENCES.” Regarding legislative matters, Trump expressed pride in his 2018 Farm Bill and stated he looks forward to passing new legislation, noting that a recent version passed along party lines. He asserted that farmers and ranchers “will be extremely happy with the end result,” which will include “much needed Dollar Assistance” to address hardships he attributed to the previous administration. Additionally, Trump praised a bipartisan Senate vote regarding name, image, and likeness (NIL) policies in college sports, characterizing the current situation as “horrible” and “out of control.” He stated that reforms are “vital to future Sports in America” to prevent bankruptcies and unfair competition, and he expects the measure to pass the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Trump extended his “Complete and Total Endorsement” to Congressman John McGuire, describing him as an “America First Warrior” who is focused on issues including border security, military support, and the Second Amendment. He also issued his “Complete and Total Endorsement” to Congresswoman Jen Kiggans, calling her a “Tremendous Advocate” for her district, and granted his re-election endorsement to Congressman Rob Wittman, citing his work on the House Armed Services Committee and his commitment to the “America First Agenda.”
Regarding foreign policy, Trump announced that “major progress is being made” toward establishing a U.S. Army base in Poland due to the leadership of Polish President Karol Nawrocki, calling the potential development a “historic step for our Great U.S./Polish Alliance.” Finally, Trump shared a link detailing his administration’s accomplishments for people of faith.
Reference: https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump
Operation Economic Outcast Dismantles Iran’s Sanctions Evasion Network
The U.S. designated two entities and three individuals for utilizing digital currency networks to facilitate Iranian regime funding. The action targets platforms like BitBank, allegedly linked to financier Babak Zanjani and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The State Department asserts these measures aim to deny the regime access to resources used to “threaten regional stability, support terrorism, and undermine international security.” Designations were implemented under Executive Order 13902 to isolate the regime financially and diplomatically.
Further Sanctions on Cuba’s Mineral Wealth and Military Modernization Apparatus
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the designation of 11 actors under Executive Order 14404. The sanctioned list includes four state-run enterprises involved in nickel extraction, four military enterprises focused on weapons and naval research, and three military officials. The Trump Administration claims these actions target a “corrupt military elite” that hoards resources while ordinary citizens lack basic necessities. The administration states it is committed to a Cuba governed by its people rather than a “military class.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys signed a framework memorandum of understanding regarding critical minerals. Secretary Rubio characterized the agreement as a positive development for economic and national security, emphasizing the need for secure supply chains in the 21st century. The U.S. and Lithuania plan to identify priority projects and mobilize government and private sector financing within six months. Secretary Rubio noted that Lithuania’s expertise in photonics necessitates “rigorous investment screening” to protect the sector.
Further Sanctions on Cuba’s Mineral Wealth and Military Modernization Apparatus Fact Sheet
The State Department designated eight entities and three individuals linked to Cuba’s military-industrial complex and nickel sector under E.O. 14404. These entities, including SIMPRO, CIDNAV, CIDAI, and GELCOM, support military capabilities, while SERCONI, CEPRONIQUEL, CEDINIQ, and PINARES S.A. facilitate nickel revenue. Designated individuals include Senior Colonel Joaquín Francisco Cancio Monteagudo, Captain Dioglis Pedrera Arguello, and Senior Colonel Julio Hurtado Betancourt. U.S. persons are prohibited from transactions involving the property of these designated parties, which is now blocked.
Secretary Rubio’s Meeting with Costa Rican Foreign Minister Tovar
Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Costa Rican Foreign Minister Manuel Tovar in Washington, D.C. According to Spokesman Tommy Pigott, Secretary Rubio expressed appreciation for Costa Rica’s efforts to deepen economic and trade relations. The Secretary recognized Costa Rica’s leadership in regional security as a founding member of the Shield of the Americas and the Americas Counter Cartel Coalition, and as a member of Pax Silica. The meeting reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to its partnership with Costa Rica.
The Department of War announced a framework agreement with Lockheed Martin to expand production of the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile. According to Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael P. Duffey, the initiative aims to send “clear, long-term demand signals” to the defense industrial base to improve manufacturing capacity. The agreement supports the Department’s Acquisition Transformation Strategy and establishes a process for future Multi-Year Procurement to assist the “Arsenal of Freedom” vision held by President Trump and Secretary Hegseth.
The Department of War announced several contract awards. Consigli Construction Co., Inc. received $364,872,171 for Marine Corps barracks construction in Cherry Point, North Carolina. BL Harbert International, LLC was awarded $207,919,569 for a hangar at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina. JRC Integrated Systems LLC received a $47,393,736 modification for SLCM-N Program support. General Dynamics NASSCO – Norfolk was awarded $26,838,780 for work on the USS Gerald R. Ford. General Dynamics Mission Systems Inc. received $20,758,050 for MK 54 torpedo engineering support.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth Travels to Texas
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is scheduled to visit Austin and College Station, Texas, as part of the “Arsenal of Freedom Tour” and “Send Me Tour.” In Austin, he will meet with workforce and leaders at Capital Factory and Saronic Technologies and enlist new recruits at the Austin Armed Forces Reserve Center. In College Station, he will address the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets, tour the Veterans Resource Center, and attend a football game where the university plans to honor POW/MIA.
Following a July 15, 2026, directive from the Secretary of War, the Defense Health Agency issued clinical guidance on September 17, 2026, regarding male testosterone deficiency. The guidance mandates screenings for service members aged 30 and older during health assessments, with options for younger personnel. Spokesman Sean Parnell stated the Department is focused on “building and maintaining a ready, lethal fighting force” and that addressing hormone levels will “strengthen their performance, and maximize force readiness.” The guidance is effective immediately.
HHS Seeks Public Input on Electromagnetic Fields and Wireless Radiation
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking evidence regarding the potential health impacts of electromagnetic fields, radiofrequency radiation, and wireless technologies. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. stated the department is acting on the “MAHA Strategy” directive. The agency invites scientists, industry, and the public to submit peer-reviewed research and data to help identify research gaps, compare safety standards, and provide recommendations for policymakers and the public regarding various wireless communication technologies.
ARPA-H Launches SPECTRA to Transform Autism Diagnosis and Precision Care
The Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) launched the Systems for Phenotypic Evaluation, Clinical Trajectories, Response, and Agency (SPECTRA) program. The initiative aims to integrate biological and computational data to improve autism diagnosis and create tailored care approaches. Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. noted that current autism science and care are not “one-size-fits-all.” SPECTRA intends to address the “behavioral and biological complexity” of autism by moving beyond existing assessment models to improve quality of life and patient outcomes.
Secretary Kennedy Announces New Appointments to U.S. Preventive Services Task Force
HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. announced the appointment of eight new members to the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force via the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. The appointees include experts in pediatrics, cardiology, gastroenterology, and health finance. Secretary Kennedy stated the goal is to strengthen the task force to ensure recommendations are “grounded in rigorous, objective science.” AHRQ Director Dr. Roger D. Klein expressed that the new members bring valuable expertise to help develop recommendations for healthier lives.
Operation Economic Outcast Disrupts Digital Asset Exchange Enabling the Iranian Regime
On September 17, 2026, the Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control designated BitBank, its developer Pishtaz Simorgh Electronic Trade Company, and three associates of financier Babak Zanjani for facilitating sanctions evasion. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent stated that these designations ensure “efforts to finance the Iranian regime using cryptocurrencies are not beyond OFAC’s reach.” The actions, taken under E.O. 13902, target infrastructure used to launder funds and transfer Bitcoin to the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps.
Governor Newsom announces appointments 9.17.2026
Governor Newsom announced several appointments: Holly Pearson as Chief Counsel at the California Department of Technology; Aubrie Fong as Community Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs Officer at the California Health and Human Services Agency; and the reappointments of Steven Carnevale, Alfred Rowlett, Keyondria Bunch, and Rayshell Chambers to the Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission. None of these positions require Senate confirmation. Compensation for Pearson is $219,300 and for Fong is $165,000; the commission positions are uncompensated.
Governor Newsom proclaims Constitution Day and Citizenship Day
Governor Newsom proclaimed September 17, 2026, as “Constitution Day and Citizenship Day.” In the proclamation, the Governor stated that the U.S. Constitution provides a framework for the American experiment and derives its power from the people. The proclamation noted that rights were historically denied to many and called for civic engagement. Newsom stated, “We stand at the crossroads of history, where efforts to undo decades of hard-won victories have reached a fever pitch,” and urged citizens to “push back against tyranny.”
Governor Newsom launched a $100 million state-funded Disaster Rebuilding Assistance Program to help fire survivors manage rebuilding costs. The program offers interest rate buydowns and loan-loss guarantees. This follows the Governor signing Assembly Bills 1842 and 1847, which make permanent certain mortgage forbearance protections for disaster-affected homeowners and extend the forbearance window to 24 months. Regarding the fund, Newsom stated, “With the launch of this recovery fund, we’re turbo-charging efforts to help families get back home and communities rebuild faster.”
Governor Newsom criticized Donald Trump’s proposal to send $5,000 checks to Americans, characterizing it as “buying votes” and noting it depends on Republican midterm success. Newsom argued that Trump should instead reimburse families for over $108 billion in fuel costs he attributes to Trump’s “endless war on Iran.” According to the Governor, this war has cost households nearly $900 each. Newsom stated, “The Trump administration started a war with Iran with no plan to protect America’s economic security. It’s time for them to reimburse the American people.”
Ocasio-Cortez Secures $351 Million for Flood Prevention in The Bronx and Queens
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez announced the House of Representatives passed the Water Resources Development Act of 2026, which authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to spend $351 million on flood and stormwater infrastructure in The Bronx and Queens. Ocasio-Cortez stated the funding is intended to “strengthen our existing flood infrastructure” and “protect our community from future weather events.” The legislation also mandates a new Office of Technical Assistance and Community Outreach and provides support for regional oyster restoration projects. The bill requires reconciliation with the Senate.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer is conducting her third investment mission to Taiwan to pursue opportunities in semiconductors, drones, robotics, and manufacturing. The delegation aims to strengthen economic ties and meet with companies considering investment in Michigan. According to the Governor, the mission seeks to “build on the strong relationships we’ve established and make the case for more companies to invest in Michigan.” MEDC CEO Quentin L. Messer, Jr. stated that the work focuses on competing for investment and fostering new market partnerships for Michigan businesses.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer approved nearly $7 million from the Disaster and Emergency Contingency Fund to support communities recovering from storms, flooding, tornadoes, and a water main break. The funds provide reimbursement to local governments that exhausted local resources when federal funding was unavailable. Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police, noted the funding is “essential to ensuring Michigan communities have access to critical support when disasters overwhelm local resources.” The appropriation covers costs incurred across several counties and state agencies.
For the First Time, Half of Maryland’s Youngest Children in Foster Care are Living with Family
As of July 2026, 50% of Maryland children under 10 in foster care live with kin, up from 34.5% in 2024. Gov. Moore and the Department of Human Services attribute this increase to the state’s 2024 Kinship Care Law and the Family Matters initiative. DHS reduced licensing barriers, increasing the percentage of licensed kinship caregivers from 25% to 88% and investing $5 million to support them. Research cited by the state suggests kinship placements improve child well-being and increase the likelihood of reunification or adoption.
Governor Moore has requested that the U.S. Small Business Administration issue an Administrative Declaration to provide Economic Injury Disaster Loans to businesses impacted by the July 9, 2026, Empire Tower structural emergency in Anne Arundel County. The governor stated the request aims to provide owners “immediate access to low-cost funding with zero initial payments.” Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russell Strickland noted the measure will provide an “important resource” for businesses navigating the “unusual and complex” situation resulting from the tower emergency.
Governor Moore has requested that the U.S. Small Business Administration issue an Administrative Declaration to provide Economic Injury Disaster Loans to businesses impacted by the July 9, 2026, Empire Tower structural emergency in Anne Arundel County. The governor stated the request aims to provide owners “immediate access to low-cost funding with zero initial payments.” Maryland Department of Emergency Management Secretary Russell Strickland noted the measure will provide an “important resource” for businesses navigating the “unusual and complex” situation resulting from the tower emergency.
Gov. Beshear Provides Team Kentucky Update
Gov. Andy Beshear announced economic developments, including a $1 billion Ford Motor Co. paint shop project and a $41 million Toyotetsu Mid America expansion. Medvantx opened a new $27 million distribution facility in Louisville. The administration secured $10.4 million in FEMA disaster funds and launched the Team Kentucky Medical Debt Relief Program. Additionally, $6.6 million in Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization grants were awarded to support Western Kentucky. The Governor noted that 98% of Kentucky families have access to safe public drinking water.
Gov. Beshear: $10.4 Million in Federal FEMA Reimbursements Secured for Multiple Flooding Events
Gov. Andy Beshear announced the state has secured over $10.4 million in FEMA funds to reimburse state agencies and local governments for expenses from 2022 and 2025 flooding. Recipients include the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management, Kentucky State Parks, Fort Boonesborough, and Breathitt, Carroll, and Owsley counties. Gov. Beshear stated, “These are dollars Kentucky was owed from multiple federally declared weather disasters over the years.” The funding was obligated under federal disaster declarations DR-4663, DR-4860, and DR-4864.
Daily Public Schedule: Thursday, September 17, 2026
Governor Pritzker has no public events scheduled for Thursday, September 17, 2026.
The Commission on Judicial Selection announced a vacancy in the Tenth Judicial District occurring upon the elevation of the Honorable John A. Bowen to the Minnesota Court of Appeals. The position is chambered in Buffalo, Wright County. The commission seeks candidates who are “fair, experienced, and civic-minded” and “reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.” Applications are due by 4:00 pm on October 8, 2026. Interested individuals should contact the Office of the Governor and Lt. Governor to apply or request information.
Measurements for understanding the pace of AI development inside frontier labs
Anthropic is proposing new metrics to provide public visibility into the pace of frontier AI development. These tools aim to clarify how models are built and track AI-led research and development. The company plans to embed independent third-party evaluators to verify safety practices and monitor key metrics. Anthropic introduced a prototype “Anthropic R&D Automation Index” to measure the extent of AI involvement in its own research, noting that recursive self-improvement remains a critical area to monitor as systems increasingly “collaborate” or “lead” on tasks.
Covers the 2026-09-16 session — the Congressional Record is published with a one-day delay.
No Congressional Record found for 2026-09-16.