Story perspectives

Congress Limits Trump's Spending Power Amid Immigration Tensions

2/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Congress passed a government funding package with new requirements to limit the U.S. President Donald Trump's ability to bypass legislative spending decisions.
The package reflects a bipartisan resistance to what lawmakers view as the Trump administration's previous disregard for Congress's authority.
Senate Republicans, led by Lindsey Graham, push back against Democratic immigration reforms and plan to penalize local officials who do not cooperate with federal immigration agents.

History

Historical Context

The Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 was enacted to limit presidential power over federal spending, following concerns about President Nixon's impoundment practices. This law requires congressional approval for budgetary decisions and has shaped the dynamics between the executive and legislative branches. Recent tensions during President Trump's administration highlight the ongoing significance of this act in maintaining checks and balances in U.S. governance.

1 of 2

Story summary

Congress passed a government funding package with new requirements to limit the U.S. President Donald Trump's ability to bypass legislative spending decisions.
The package reflects a bipartisan resistance to what lawmakers view as the Trump administration's previous disregard for Congress's authority.
Senate Republicans, led by Lindsey Graham, push back against Democratic immigration reforms and plan to penalize local officials who do not cooperate with federal immigration agents.

1 / 2