In this episode of Congress in Context, we explore a legislative session defined by high-stakes constitutional showdowns and significant institutional transitions. The program examines the escalating partisan battle over "Operation Epic Fury" in Iran, as Democrats utilize the War Powers Resolution to challenge President Trump’s unilateral military strikes and the resulting economic strain caused by the Strait of Hormuz blockade. We also analyze the deep divide over the SAVE America Act and a controversial new Executive Order regarding vote-by-mail, which have sparked competing claims of election integrity and voter suppression. Amidst these debates, the House achieved a bipartisan milestone by passing the ALERT Act to modernize aviation safety following the tragic 2025 midair collision near DCA, even as the chamber navigated the sudden resignations of Representatives Tony Gonzales and Eric Swalwell. Finally, the episode highlights a moving tribute from the Congressional Black Caucus commemorating the life and legacy of Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr., celebrating his transformative impact on American democracy and civil rights.

Congressional Record Analysis of the following dates:

April 9-14, 2026

https://www.congress.gov/congressional-record/browse-by-date

Bills

• Operation Epic Fury & War Powers: Debates over President Trump’s unilateral military strikes in Iran, the resulting blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, and Democratic efforts to utilize the War Powers Resolution to reclaim constitutional authority over war.
• The ALERT Act (H.R. 7613): A major bipartisan bill to modernize aviation safety and collision mitigation technology following the 2025 midair collision near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
• SAVE America Act & Vote-by-Mail: Legislation and an Executive Order concerning voter ID requirements and proof of citizenship, sparking intense debate over election integrity versus voter suppression.
• Emergency Conservation Program Improvement Act (H.R. 1011): A bill passed to streamline disaster recovery assistance for farmers and forest landowners impacted by hurricanes and wildfires.
• Boundary Waters Wilderness (H.J. Res 140): A resolution to allow copper-nickel mining in Minnesota’s Boundary Waters, which critics argue threatens Tribal treaty rights and environmental health.
• Retirement Security for Caregivers: The introduction of S. 4291 and related bills to allow "catch-up" contributions to retirement accounts for family caregivers.
• Congressional Transitions: The sudden resignations of Representatives Tony Gonzales and Eric Swalwell, and the swearing-in of Representative Clay Fuller.
• Commemoration of Jesse Jackson, Sr.: A moving tribute from the Congressional Black Caucus celebrating the civil rights and political legacy of Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr..