Capitol Hill in Photos: September 19-24, 2026
CQ Roll Call photojournalists captured scenes from Capitol Hill during September 19-24, 2026, including a Senate confirmation hearing, the Congressional Women’s Softball game, and a 90th birthday celebration for former Sen. Barbara Mikulski. The week came just before the Senate's final session week ahead of the election recess. Other images included a hearing on Flock's surveillance network and independent Senate candidates calling for action on AI and data centers.
The week featured a Senate HELP Committee confirmation hearing for Dr. Heidi Overton, nominated to lead the FDA, where Chairman Bill Cassidy and Sen. Roger Marshall spoke. Elsewhere, the Congressional Women’s Softball game at Audi Field matched congresswomen against female journalists; the Bad News Babes won after House Chaplain Margaret Kibben offered a prayer with Team Congress.
Former Sen. Barbara Mikulski marked her 90th birthday at the Capitol with Sens. Cory Booker, Chris Van Hollen, Angela Alsobrooks and former Sen. Ben Cardin. A Judiciary subcommittee examined Flock’s AI surveillance network, hearing from Lindsey Isaacs, who was wrongly accused in a fatal crash. Independent candidates also urged Congress to act on AI and data centers.
The week’s images may shape public awareness of federal oversight, from FDA leadership and AI surveillance to election-season dynamics. Voters, patients, drivers, and technology users could be affected by confirmation outcomes and surveillance debates. Lawmakers’ final pre-recess activity may influence how constituents view congressional priorities. The softball and Mikulski birthday moments could soften coverage, while independent candidates’ push on AI and data centers may keep those issues visible.