What’s next for Congress in 2026?

By Jennifer Fox

As Washington enters 2026, the first session of the 119th Congress is now firmly in the rearview mirror — and it will be remembered as one of the most unpredictable and consequential in recent history.

From the rapid passage of H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, to a prolonged government shutdown that disrupted normal legislative operations, the year was defined by sharp contrasts: momentum followed by paralysis. Throughout it all, Finseca remained focused on advancing the nation’s financial security agenda amid both progress and persistent challenges.

The shutdown showed just how fragile governing has become in a narrowly divided Congress. Beyond its immediate disruption of federal agencies, the shutdown delayed critical committee work that shapes long-term policy. For financial security professionals and the families they serve, it was a reminder that dysfunction in Washington has real, everyday consequences — delaying guidance and creating uncertainty across the system.

As lawmakers begin the second session of the 119th Congress, committees are working through a significant backlog. Much of that work directly affects the financial security profession, including oversight of tax implementation under H.R. 1 and efforts to address emerging issues such as digital assets and housing affordability. The House Ways and Means Committee, the Senate Finance Committee and the House Financial Services Committee will remain central players. Finseca will continue engaging with policymakers, monitoring hearings and ensuring the profession’s voice is present at every stage.

Learning lessons from the 2025 government shutdown, through the leadership of House Appropriations Chair Tom Cole, R-Okla.; Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, D-Conn.; Senate Chair Susan Collins, R-Maine; and Ranking Member Patty Murray, D-Wash., Congress has cobbled together a path to pass all 12 appropriations bills. This bipartisan work is an important feat, as fiscal year 2027 funding deadlines will arrive on Oct. 1.

Leadership dynamics in the House add another layer of complexity. Speaker Mike Johnson continues to navigate a razor-thin majority amid a growing list of announced retirements. Internal divisions could limit Congress’ ability to advance more complex legislation, including any follow-on tax or retirement proposals.

As the political calendar accelerates, the 2026 midterm elections will increasingly dominate Washington. Historically, election years slow legislative activity as members spend more time campaigning and less time legislating. That reality, however, makes advocacy more — not less — important. Election cycles create critical opportunities to educate candidates and incumbents about the role financial professionals play in helping families, small businesses and communities achieve long-term security.

Finally, turnover itself will define the road ahead. With many experienced lawmakers departing, the next Congress will bring a wave of new members who must be introduced to complex issues like tax policy, retirement security and estate planning. For Finseca, this moment presents an opportunity to build relationships early, reinforce bipartisan credibility and ensure financial security remains a national priority — regardless of political shifts.