Government Relations Updates
Mayor Parker had a full week of public engagements, including the unveiling of the Red, White & Blue To-Do 2026 celebration plans in honor of America’s 250th. Governor Shapiro was joined by the Dutch king and queen for a tour of Independence National Park, and the PA House moved a slew of bills this week.
The Bellevue Compass
Congress returned from recess to a lengthy to-do list. The DHS shutdown has stretched over 60 days, but there’s a lot in the way of a potential funding deal, including the FISA bill (more on that below), and the ever-evolving situation in Iran.
In Case You Missed It
Israel and Lebanon reached a temporary ceasefire and the Strait of Hormuz is reopened, but the US blockade remains in full effect until Iran agrees to a peace agreement, per President Trump. Amid the ongoing uncertainty, there’s a spot of good news as oil prices dropped dramatically and the stock market ticked up.
If you’ve been paying attention to The Bellevue Compass, you’ll know that Congress wanted to pass a five-year extension of the U.S.’s spy powers before Monday. Overnight, the bill was tanked by 12 Republicans who voted with Democrats, and the Senate has since sent over a ten-day extension to President Trump’s desk.
RFK Jr. defended his decisions as Health Secretary before the House in two days of hearings. It appears his tone may be shifting on vaccines, one of the most consistently controversial topics surrounding his office.
The Dutch king and queen visited Philadelphia, the first stop on their three-day tour in the United States, and spent time walking Independence Hall with Governor Shapiro and first lady Lori Shapiro before watching performances by students at the Kensington Creative and Performing Arts High School.
Go Phillies! ⚾️
See you next week!
The Bellevue Team