The Daily Punch Wow, Congress is actually governing
Jan 14, 2026
Appropriators might be regaining their influence as bipartisan funding bills progress in the House. A recap of passed bills offers insights into the legislative landscape ahead of a looming deadline. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer celebrates successful recruitment amidst a challenging electoral map for 2026. Meanwhile, a battle brews in the Senate over stablecoin regulations as banks clash with crypto interests. All this unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing chaos and leadership issues in the House.
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Appropriators Are Regaining Influence
- Appropriators appear to be reclaiming power as the House advances multiple bipartisan 2026 funding bills.
- This shift could let Congress exert more control rather than cede decisions to the administration.
Bipartisan Votes Signal Process Returning
- The House passed six bipartisan funding bills and plans more, signaling a modest return to regular order.
- Large bipartisan margins on at least one bill show appropriators can still build cross-party consensus.
Don’t Bring Unwinnable Bills To The Floor
- Avoid putting bills on the floor that lack a clear path to passage by aligning leadership strategy with realistic margins.
- House leaders should coordinate to prevent embarrassing failed votes that fuel leadership challenges.