The U.S. Congress saw intense activity across both chambers during the period of December 8–11, 2025, dominated by major defense authorizations, critical healthcare debates, and movement on international issues.

National Defense and Foreign Affairs: The House and Senate reconciled and passed the $890.6 billion National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (S. 1071). Key reforms included streamlining the acquisition process to enhance warfighter lethality and readiness.

The Senate separately passed the Scam Compound Accountability and Mobilization Act (S. 2950), intended to counter organizations using human trafficking victims for cyber-enabled fraud.

Domestic Legislation and Policy Debates: A major focus was the impending expiration of the ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits. Democrats pressed for the passage of S. 3385, aiming for a clean, three-year extension. Republicans countered with S. 3386, offering an alternative that included reforms like increased funding for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and efforts to curb fraud, citing a GAO report that found 23 of 24 fake applications were approved in the ACA Marketplace. The Senate agreed to proceed to S.J. Res. 82 (Policy on Adhering to the Text of the Administrative Procedure Act), seeking to overturn an HHS rule that removed a mechanism for public comment on certain policies. The House passed several significant bills, including the PERMIT Act (H.R. 3898) to streamline water permitting, the Electric Supply Chain Act (H.R. 3638) authorizing DOE assessments of energy supply chains, and the Protect America’s Workforce Act (H.R. 2550), which nullifies Executive Order 14251, restoring collective bargaining rights for many Federal workers.

Judicial and Other Actions: The Senate confirmed Robert P. Chamberlin to be a U.S. District Judge (MS), successfully invoking cloture on his nomination (52-44). The body turned to further consideration and scheduled cloture votes for William J. Crain (District Judge, LA). Additionally, the House passed twelve bills naming postal facilities across the country, honoring civic leaders, veterans, and law enforcement, including Officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz (NY) and Brigadier General Frederick R. Lopez (CA). The House also approved the Adams Memorial-Great American Heroes Act (H.R. 2306), addressing the location and timeline for the Adams family memorial.

This week in Washington, Congress faced deep divisions over expiring Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits, with Democrats urging a clean extension to prevent premium spikes for millions. Lawmakers debated key small business legislation, including the Small Business Regulatory Reduction Act and the DUMP Red Tape Act. Oversight concerns peaked following the tragic shooting of National Guard member SPC Sarah Beckstrom by an Afghan national admitted via the Biden administration's parole program. Debates intensified over the legality of recent Caribbean boat strikes and the controversial pardon of convicted drug trafficker Juan Orlando Hernández. The House also passed legislation targeting foreign, particularly Chinese, influence in K–12 public schools. (Proceedings also included multiple votes confirming U.S. District Judges).

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

Congress in Context is a podcast that breaks down the daily happenings in the U.S. Congress, giving Americans a clear and unbiased look at what their elected officials are actually doing. Using the Congressional Record as our foundation, we analyze key votes, debates, and legislative actions, cutting through political spin to reveal the truth. With the power of AI, we investigate complex policies, decode legal jargon, and explain decisions in plain, easy-to-understand language. Are lawmakers keeping their promises and working for the people, or are they serving their own interests or party agendas? We hold them accountable, so you stay informed.