In this episode of Congress in Context, we examine the high-stakes proceedings of March 9, 2026, as the 119th Congress grapples with domestic stalemates and a new international conflict. We break down the ongoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown, analyzing Senator Thune’s critique of the "unserious" Democratic funding proposals and Senator Durbin’s response following the firing of Secretary Kristi Noem.

The episode explores the escalating war in Iran, highlighting constitutional concerns over war powers and Senator Schumer's call to release oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to combat skyrocketing gas prices. We also dive into the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, where Senator Moreno advocates for "Main Street over Wa ...