All Progressives Congress

Senators Ed Markey and Jeff Merkley, along with Representatives Pramila Jayapal, Rashida Tlaib and Ayanna Pressley, have reintroduced legislation that would stop federal government use of facial recognition and other biometric surveillance technology. The measure, first put forward in earlier sessions of Congress, targets concerns over misidentification, privacy violations and disproportionate policing of communities of color, renewing a debate among civil liberties groups, law enforcement agencies and technology firms.

The Texas Observer reports, citing Gaige Davila, that the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge in South Texas — once called a "crown jewel" of US protected spaces — faces mounting pressure from border wall construction. A final lawsuit is being weighed as a way to slow the wall's progress until Congress can intervene to protect the refuge.

Pennsylvania Senator John Fetterman voted against a Democratic-led War Powers resolution aimed at limiting US military action against Iran, again diverging from his party. The vote puts him alongside Republicans on one of the most contentious foreign policy questions in Congress, drawing criticism from progressive voters and praise from conservatives. It is the latest in a string of occasions where Fetterman has broken with Senate Democrats.

Efforts to advance the Pentagon budget have stalled, with extensive discussion but no concrete progress in Congress. Lawmakers and defense officials continue to debate spending priorities, but no agreement or legislative action has emerged. The deadlock leaves defense funding plans unresolved as deadlines approach.

The Senate has sent a college sports bill to the House of Representatives, using a procedural move compared to a lateral in football. While the legislation has cleared one chamber, its prospects in the House remain uncertain, leaving the future of the proposed college sports reforms in doubt as lawmakers weigh next steps.

Nigeria's Supreme Court has delivered a judgement on the electoral act with direct implications for Chinda Ogundu, the Rivers State All Progressives Congress governorship candidate, and others in similar positions. The ruling is prompting debate about how it affects candidates' eligibility and party nominations ahead of elections in the state, with observers weighing what it means for future contests.

Veteran advocacy organization Mission Roll Call is calling on the 120th Congress to continue its work on veterans' issues, stressing that key legislative priorities remain unfinished. The message emphasizes that despite past progress, lawmakers must keep advancing policies on veteran healthcare, benefits, and support as the new congressional session gets underway.

US Senator Mike Lee has blocked a bill that would prohibit President Trump from demolishing the Kennedy Center without Congress's approval. The legislation would have safeguarded any presidential memorial designated by Congress against demolition. Lee objected to the measure, halting its progress, and the move has drawn criticism as concerns grow over Trump's influence over the Washington institution.