CONGRESSIONAL RECORD
Congressional Record
Floor statements, debates, and proceedings of the U.S. Congress
The Congressional Record
The official daily journal of Congress since 1873
What Is the Congressional Record?
The Congressional Record is the official daily journal of the United States Congress, published since 1873. It records the proceedings, debates, and activities of both the Senate and House of Representatives.
Verbatim vs. Revised Remarks
While called a "record," members of Congress can revise and extend their floor remarks before publication. This means the printed version may differ from what was actually said on the floor.
Extensions of Remarks
Members can insert statements, articles, tributes, and other material into the "Extensions of Remarks" section without actually delivering them on the floor. These are marked with a bullet symbol.
How to Read It
Each issue is divided into four sections: Senate proceedings, House proceedings, Extensions of Remarks, and the Daily Digest (a summary of the day's activity with future meeting schedules).
Why It Matters
The Congressional Record is a primary tool for accountability. It shows what your representatives say (or claim to say) on the floor, what legislation is being debated, and what positions they take on the issues.
Key fact: The Congressional Record is not a true verbatim transcript. Members may revise their remarks, insert material they never actually spoke, and even have statements appear in the "Extensions of Remarks" section without ever taking the floor. Always check for the bullet symbol that indicates inserted (not spoken) material.