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 that President Donald J. Trump signed S. 858, the “Hershel ‘Woody’ Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act,” into law on September 10, 2026. President Trump also proposed a $5,000 cash payment for every adult American citizen, which the White House stated is conditioned on Republicans winning control of the House and Senate. Additionally, the White House announced that the federal government will issue $500 refunds to nearly 1 million Americans, an action the White House describes as addressing “Obamacare overcharges” from the Biden Administration.
On Truth Social, President Donald J. Trump described the Republican Midterm Convention as a “major, sold out hit” and asserted that it achieved “really big numbers.” Trump also noted that the Supreme Court sided with Republicans regarding broadcast ad rates and praised a response given by Jared Kushner to a reporter.
The State Department announced the launch of Operation Economic Outcast, an effort to target the financial networks of Kata’ib Hizballah and Hizballah, and the Space Catalyst Partnership to foster international commercial space cooperation. The Department of War announced multiple contract awards, including $989,996,050 to Ernst & Young LLP for audit services, and stated the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial will be closed on September 11, 2026. The Department of Health and Human Services awarded nearly $25 million to 132 small rural hospitals, while the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control sanctioned individuals and entities supporting the aforementioned terrorist proxies.
Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation to regulate companion chatbots and ban addictive social media features for users under 16, receiving support from Hillary Rodham Clinton and various state lawmakers. Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Governor Andy Beshear ordered flags to half-staff to honor Patriot Day on September 11, 2026. Governor Beshear also announced a $1 billion investment from Ford Motor Co. at the Kentucky Truck Plant and bridge construction updates for Louisville. Governor JB Pritzker announced over $26 million for the Illinois Grocery Initiative, and Governor Tim Walz announced the Blatnik Bridge replacement project and several state appointments. Senator Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock announced $500 million in federal funding for Georgia water infrastructure, and Senator Ossoff cosponsored the Homegrown Fertilizer Act.
OpenAI and the U.S. General Services Administration announced an agreement providing government employees with discounted access to OpenAI tools. Anthropic’s Threat Intelligence team published a report detailing how it disrupted threat actors utilizing Claude for malicious activities. Palantir and Method Security announced “The Cardinal Program” to integrate autonomous cyber systems, and Palantir and NVIDIA announced a collaboration to create an AI stack for supply chain operations.
No Congressional Record was available for September 9, 2026.
On September 10, 2026, the President signed S. 858, the “Hershel ‘Woody’ Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act,” into law. According to the White House, this measure “authorizes the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation to establish a commemorative work on the National Mall” to celebrate the “extraordinary acts of valor, selfless service, and sacrifice” of Medal of Honor recipients.
Reference: Original White House release
President Donald J. Trump announced the “Trump Dividend,” a proposed $5,000 cash payment for every adult American citizen. The White House stated this is “possible by the strength of the American economy under his leadership.” President Trump conditioned this proposal on Republicans winning control of the House of Representatives and the United States Senate, asserting, “only I can make this promise to you.” The White House claimed the announcement proves President Trump “delivers for the American people” and cautioned that “Democrat control means America loses.”
Reference: Original White House release
President Donald J. Trump announced that the federal government will issue $500 refunds to nearly 1 million Americans across 30 states to address what the White House describes as “Obamacare overcharges” collected by the Biden Administration. The White House states these actions refund individuals “most exposed to the higher costs imposed by the Biden Administration’s gross mismanagement of Obamacare.” Additionally, the White House claims President Trump is “delivering on promises to lower costs for American patients” by challenging health insurance companies and corporate entities.
Reference: Original White House release
Trump described the Republican Midterm Convention in Dallas as a “major, sold out hit” that was “far bigger, better, and more important than anyone thought possible.” He asserted that the event achieved “really big numbers,” which he claimed beat the NFL, and noted that the arena broke its own attendance records with a “packed” house and thousands of people remaining outside to watch on screens. Trump stated that the convention featured a “packed house” last night, and he announced plans to attend again tonight to “close out the show” regarding what he characterized as “Exciting Stuff!”
Regarding legal and media matters, Trump shared a report noting that the Supreme Court sided with Republicans in a dispute concerning broadcast ad rates. Additionally, he praised a “Classic answer by Jared” given in response to what Trump described as a “hostile, Trump Deranged Reporter.”
Reference: https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump
U.S. Takes Action Against Iran’s Terrorist Proxies
The United States launched Operation Economic Outcast to target Kata’ib Hizballah, Hizballah, and their financial networks. According to the State Department, these groups serve as “Tehran’s instruments for projecting violence and subversion” globally. The action, taken under Executive Orders 13224 and 13902, aims to disrupt IRGC-QF efforts to fund terrorism and evade sanctions. Officials state these measures support a stable Iraq and protect Lebanese institutions from Hizballah’s financial interference, as the U.S. continues working to isolate the regime from its financial lifelines.
Launch of the Space Catalyst Partnership to Secure American Commercial Space Superiority
Launched in Lima, Peru, the Space Catalyst Partnership (SCP) is the State Department’s initiative to foster civil and commercial space cooperation with Artemis Accords signatories. The program utilizes diplomatic outreach, industry engagement, and foreign assistance to integrate U.S. space technology into partner economies. A $6.5 million rural connectivity project in Peru serves as an initial pilot. The Department intends for the SCP to help American firms compete globally while assisting partner nations in developing space industries and scientific capabilities.
National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial Temporary Closure
The National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial will be closed to the public from 3 a.m. to 12 p.m. EDT on September 11, 2026, to support the 25th Anniversary 9/11 Observance Ceremony. The closure excludes survivors and victim’s families, who are encouraged to contact the Pentagon Special Events Office regarding visits during this period.
The Department of War announced multiple contract awards, including $989,996,050 to Ernst & Young LLP for audit services; $480,365,950 to Accenture Federal Services for a task management system; $223,577,265 to Harper Construction Co. Inc. for a depot maintenance facility; $49,997,842 to Charles Reed Knight Jr. for sniper systems; $22,755,475 to Manson Construction Co. for dredging; $15,500,977 to American Ordnance LLC for facility equipment; and $9,612,429 to HGL-APTIM Technologies JV LLC for remedial action. A correction was issued for a September 4, 2026, Griffon Aerospace Inc. contract awarded September 8.
HHS Awards Nearly $25 Million to Strengthen Small Rural Hospitals and Preserve Access to Care
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), awarded nearly $25 million to 132 small rural hospitals across 13 states. According to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., the funding aims to help hospitals “keep doctors and nurses on the job, protect lifesaving services, and deliver care close to home.” The program seeks to mitigate financial challenges and reduce the risk of hospital closures, ensuring rural communities maintain access to emergency and inpatient services.
Operation Economic Outcast Strikes Iran’s Global Terrorist Proxy Network
On September 10, 2026, the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned entities and individuals supporting Kata’ib Hizballah and Hizballah. OFAC also initiated an enforcement action against an individual for providing services to Iranian companies and updated its Iran Statement of Licensing Policy to a presumption of denial. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent stated, “Operation Economic Outcast is targeting those who continue to stand with the failing Iranian regime,” adding that the department aims to “dismantle the networks keeping the regime afloat.”
Governor Newsom signed legislation regarding chatbot and social media regulations. Hillary Rodham Clinton stated, “I’m glad to see California take steps to protect children from the harms of social media and chatbots.” Lawmakers including Assemblymembers Bauer-Kahan, Lowenthal, Wicks, Addis, Hoover, Irwin, and Senators Padilla, Rubio, and Stern expressed support for the bills, citing goals to protect children from online exploitation, data privacy risks, and addictive design features, while establishing safety models for other states.
Governor Newsom announces appointments 9.10.26
Governor Newsom appointed Melinda Grant as Undersecretary, Tad Egawa as Deputy Secretary and General Counsel, Nicole Hisatomi as Deputy Secretary of Legislation, and Claire Cullis as Deputy Secretary at the California Business and Consumer Services Agency. These positions do not require Senate confirmation. Grant’s compensation is $224,940, Egawa’s is $228,984, and Hisatomi’s is $174,948. The appointees are Democrats with professional backgrounds in state government, legal counsel, and policy consulting.
Governor Newsom signs the strongest child safety chatbot and social media laws in the nation
Governor Newsom signed legislation to regulate companion chatbots, ban addictive social media features for users under 16, and expand privacy protections. “Adam’s Law” mandates crisis protocols and safety audits for chatbots. The legislation also expands definitions of child sexual exploitation to include AI-generated content. Governor Newsom stated, “California will not stand by while unregulated technology puts our children at risk.” First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom added, “safety must not be an afterthought – but baked into design and a necessary requisite for all innovation.”
Gov. Whitmer Lowers Flags to Honor Patriot Day
Governor Gretchen Whitmer ordered U.S. and Michigan flags to be lowered to half-staff on September 11, 2026, to honor those who died and responded to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Governor Whitmer encouraged Michiganders to observe a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. and participate in community service. Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II stated, “Today, I encourage all Michiganders to stand together, give back to their communities, and honor the heroes who sacrificed their lives for others.” Flags are to return to full staff on September 12.
Gov. Beshear Orders Flags to Half-Staff for Patriot Day
Gov. Beshear ordered flags at all state office buildings to be lowered to half-staff on Friday, September 11, 2026. The action commemorates Patriot Day and honors those lost in the 9/11 terrorist attacks 25 years ago. The Governor encouraged businesses, individuals, and organizations throughout the commonwealth to participate in the tribute.
Gov. Beshear: I-65 Construction Updated To Support Louisville Residents, Traffic Flow
Gov. Beshear and Secretary Rebecca Goodman joined Mayor Craig Greenberg to announce updates to the I-65 Central Corridor project. Nine bridges are being upgraded, with the first three expected to be completed in March 2027. Work on the remaining six bridges will involve local detours, while maintaining one lane in each direction downtown. Gov. Beshear stated the work is intended to ensure “safer travel for our families” and support residents. Through truck traffic remains diverted to I-264 to manage congestion.
Ford Motor Co. plans to invest $1 billion to build a new paint shop at its Kentucky Truck Plant, with groundbreaking expected by the end of 2026. Gov. Beshear stated the announcement “highlights Ford’s longstanding commitment to our state and to our workforce.” Ford CEO Jim Farley said the investment demonstrates “confidence in Kentucky’s workforce.” The project follows Ford’s previous $2 billion investments in the Louisville Assembly Plant and Ford Energy Systems in Glendale.
Gov. Pritzker Announces $26 Million for Illinois Grocery Initiative Grant Program
Governor JB Pritzker and the DCEO announced over $26 million for the Illinois Grocery Initiative. This includes $20.8 million for the New Stores program, $750,000 for Equipment Upgrades, and $4.5 million for a new Grocery Rescue Program to reopen stores closed within the past year. Governor Pritzker stated local grocery stores are the “backbone of communities,” while Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton described the grants as “innovative solutions to combatting food deserts.” Applications are open through a competitive process.
Daily Public Schedule: Thursday, September 10, 2026
Governor Pritzker has no public events scheduled for Thursday, September 10, 2026.
Governor Walz Orders Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of September 11
Governor Tim Walz proclaimed Friday, September 11, 2026, as Patriot Day. He ordered all United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to fly at half-staff from sunrise to sundown to honor the victims and events of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
Commission on Judicial Selection Recommends Candidates for Fifth Judicial District
The Commission on Judicial Selection announced it is recommending five candidates to fill vacancies within Minnesota’s Fifth Judicial District.
Governor Walz Celebrates First Day of 2026-2027 School Year
Governor Tim Walz visited elementary schools in Northfield and Coon Rapids to mark the start of the 2026-2027 school year. During the visits, he greeted students and participated in meal service. The Office of the Governor stated that families are saving $1,000 per student annually due to the Free School Meals program.
Minnesota Reaches Milestone in Free School Meals Program
Governor Tim Walz announced that the state’s School Meals Program has served more than 150 million free meals in its third year. This brings the total number of meals served since the program’s inception to nearly 450 million.
Governor Walz Appoints John Bowen to the Minnesota Court of Appeals
Governor Tim Walz announced the appointment of John Bowen to the Minnesota Court of Appeals.
Governor Walz Breaks Ground on Blatnik Bridge Replacement
Governor Tim Walz, alongside Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, federal partners, and labor leaders, broke ground on the $1.8 billion Blatnik Bridge replacement project. The Office of the Governor described the initiative as “one of the largest public works projects in state history.”
Office of the Governor Announces Appointments
The Office of the Governor announced a series of appointments on August 28, 2026.
Minnesota Credit Rating Affirmed at AAA
Governor Tim Walz announced that Moody’s Investors Service, S&P Global Ratings, and FitchRatings have affirmed Minnesota’s AAA credit rating and stable outlook. According to the Governor, this represents the “highest possible mark” from these agencies.
Governor Walz Orders Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of Dolly Parton
In accordance with a proclamation by President Donald Trump, Governor Tim Walz ordered United States and Minnesota flags at state buildings to fly at half-staff. This order was effective immediately until sunrise on September 1, 2026, in honor and remembrance of Dolly Parton.
Governor Walz Appoints District Court Judges to Second Judicial District
Governor Tim Walz announced the appointment of Wesley Abrahamson and Devona Wells to serve as District Court Judges in Minnesota’s Second Judicial District.
Senators Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock announced $500 million in federal funding to upgrade Georgia’s water infrastructure following Hurricane Helene. The package includes approximately $360 million for drinking water and $125 million for wastewater projects, sourced from a December 2024 bipartisan disaster relief measure. The Georgia Environmental Finance Authority will oversee distribution. Sen. Ossoff described the funding as a means to “improve Georgia’s water infrastructure,” while Sen. Warnock stated the storm served as a “wake-up call” regarding the state’s readiness for extreme weather.
Sen. Ossoff Working Across the Aisle to Lower Fertilizer Costs for Georgia Farmers
Senator Jon Ossoff has cosponsored the bipartisan Homegrown Fertilizer Act to incentivize domestic fertilizer production through USDA grants and loans. Sen. Ossoff stated that “input costs are soaring for Georgia farmers” due to the “Trump Administration’s war in Iran” and noted he is working to “strengthen critical supply chains.” The legislation aims to address challenges faced by farmers struggling with high fertilizer prices and low crop margins. Sen. Ossoff continues to advocate for agricultural support, including tax relief and resources for growers impacted by Hurricane Helene.
Expanding AI access and cyber defense for federal, state, local, and tribal governments
OpenAI and the U.S. General Services Administration have announced a multi-year agreement providing U.S. federal, state, local, and tribal government employees with free license fees and 50% off usage for OpenAI tools, including GPT-6 Astra. The initiative expands eligibility to approximately 23 million public-sector workers. Additionally, verified government cyber defenders can access “Daybreak Blue” at a 50% discount and request “Daybreak Red” for vulnerability research. OpenAI states the goal is to make government services “faster, easier, safer, and more reliable.”
Detecting and countering misuse of AI: September 2026
Anthropic’s Threat Intelligence team reported disrupting operations between December 2025 and August 2026 where threat actors used Claude for malicious activity, including cyber operations, influence campaigns, and fraud. The company states it shares these findings to help “strengthen collective defenses.” Anthropic notes that AI has “collapsed the labor and tooling gap,” allowing smaller operators to conduct sophisticated campaigns. While Claude Haiku, Sonnet, and Opus models were involved in these cases, Anthropic reports that no misuse involved Claude Fable or Mythos-class models, except for one instance.
Method Security and Palantir Announce The Cardinal Program
Method Security and Palantir have announced The Cardinal Program, an initiative designed to integrate Method’s autonomous cyber systems into Palantir’s Ontology for Cybersecurity.
NVIDIA and Palantir Bring Sovereign Intelligence to Critical Supply Chains
Palantir and NVIDIA announced a collaboration to create an AI stack for complex supply chains by combining Palantir’s Foundry and Artificial Intelligence Platform with NVIDIA’s Nemotron open models. The system aims to provide visibility and orchestration for supply chain operations while maintaining data ownership. NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang stated, “NVIDIA and Palantir are transforming this vast operational graph into sovereign intelligence.” Palantir CEO Alex Karp noted the stack delivers “capabilities that exceed the frontier while providing alpha protection qualities unavailable otherwise.”
Covers the 2026-09-09 session — the Congressional Record is published with a one-day delay.
No Congressional Record found for 2026-09-09.