Calendar

The Senate confirmed Walter Clayton as Director of National Intelligence on Thursday, July 30, following a 51-43 cloture vote. Lawmakers also advanced H.R. 5334, the Supporting Early-childhood Educators’ Deductions Act, through two procedural votes with broad bipartisan support. However, two joint resolutions failed to move forward: S.J.Res. 199, regarding child care flexibility rules, and S.J.Res. 181, which sought to remove U.S. forces from hostilities against Iran. Several committees held hearings on the impact of artificial intelligence, including its role in senior fraud and workplace safety, while the Homeland Security Committee scheduled testimony from Anthony Fauci.

In the coming week, the Senate Judiciary Committee is scheduled to consider the nomination of Todd Blanche to be Attorney General. Legislative activity will focus on child safety and technology, with markups planned for S.737 and S.1748 to protect minors online, alongside bills addressing AI chatbots and smart toys. Other committees have scheduled hearings on Social Security solvency, the reality of Medicaid, and the use of biotechnology in health care. Additionally, the Indian Affairs Committee will consider several land and water rights bills, including S.239 and H.R. 2400, while the Foreign Relations Committee is set to receive a closed briefing on the war in Sudan.