House panel advances kids safety bills despite Democratic opposition

Democrats are expressing optimism about their prospects for retaking the House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections, following a series of significant victories in 2025. With only three additional seats needed to gain control, the party is gearing up for a critical electoral battle against Republicans, particularly in the context of President Trump's influence on the political landscape.

The U.S. Coast Guard, in coordination with the Departments of Defense and Justice, seized a Venezuelan oil tanker, a move that has raised alarms among Democrats regarding potential escalation in U.S.-Venezuela relations. This action is part of the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign against President Nicolás Maduro's regime, which has been characterized by increasing military operations in the region.

Nearly two dozen House Republicans voted alongside Democrats to nullify an executive order from President Trump that stripped collective bargaining rights from unionized federal workers. This bipartisan decision reflects a significant shift in the Republican Party's stance on labor rights and Trump's influence within the party.

A bipartisan vote in Congress saw 20 Republicans join Democrats to reverse a Trump-era executive order that restricted the power of federal worker unions. This decision reflects a growing divide within the Republican Party regarding Trump's influence and policies.

Rep. Al Green's attempt to impeach former President Trump was unsuccessful as a majority of House members, including some Democrats, voted to table the motion. This decision reflects the ongoing divisions within Congress regarding Trump's presidency and the impeachment process.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is facing opposition from moderate Democrats regarding his proposal for a $33-per-employee monthly tax on large businesses, aimed at addressing a significant $1.15 billion budget deficit. The proposed 'head tax' has sparked a feud within the party, highlighting divisions over fiscal strategies and economic policies.

Members of Congress engaged in a heated debate regarding President Donald Trump's deployment of the National Guard in various American cities, with Republicans defending the actions as necessary to combat lawlessness, while Democrats condemned them as an abuse of military power infringing on states' rights.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is set to face intense questioning from Democrats regarding the Republican administration's immigration policies during an upcoming House hearing. This scrutiny comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding her decisions, including the continuation of deportation flights despite court orders and her comments on the vetting of Afghan refugees linked to a recent shooting incident involving National Guardsmen.