U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher of Idaho’s 1st District has announced his support for H.R. 5371, The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, 2026. After voting in favor of the bill, Fulcher released a statement outlining his reasons.
“To comprehensively address the United States’ $37 trillion federal debt, Congress must return to completing all twelve annual appropriations bills through regular order.
“For the first time since fiscal year (FY) 2019, both chambers are on track to do just that and are advancing FY 2026 appropriations bills to conference, where the House and Senate negotiate the final version of each bill.
“For this reason, I voted yes on today’s clean, short-term funding extension. This measure will keep the government open, allowing Congress to finish next year’s spending bills the right way—through regular order, marking a return to legislative transparency and fiscal responsibility.”
Senator Joni Ernst plays several roles in Congress according to her official website, including leading committees such as Small Business and Entrepreneurship and serving on others like Armed Services and Homeland Security. Her office also provides constituent services across Iowa, helping with casework and facilitating interactions with federal agencies.
Ernst became the first woman from Iowa elected to the U.S. Senate in 2014 and is noted as the first female combat veteran in that chamber. She continues to operate within the federal legislative branch as a senator from Iowa while offering various public services.
