Congress Is Slowing Down

The Republican-controlled 119th Congress has enacted just 121 public laws, the second-fewest at this stage of any Congress in four decades. Only 109 are classified as substantive.

Figures show public laws enacted before Election Day in each Congress. The 119th Congress figure is as of October 14, 2026. Pew defines substantive laws as those with a real-world policy or administrative effect; ceremonial laws primarily recognize or honor people, groups or causes.
Chart: David AverreSource: Pew Research Center, October 14, 2026