House lawmakers request over $1 billion in federal funding for local projects in 2026

House Republicans and Democrats have requested more than $1 billion in federal funding for projects in their home districts for fiscal year 2026 so far, according to a Fox News analysis published Monday.

The report comes as both chambers of Congress are on their annual August recess, during which lawmakers return to their home districts to meet with constituents and have a little vacation time. Both chambers are expected to debate federal funding for 2026 when they return next month. 

The requests also come after conservative "fiscal hawks" in the House criticized excessive federal spending, yet are asking for millions of dollars for projects for their supporters. 

House Freedom Caucus Chairman Andy Harris has secured more than $55 million for several projects in his home state of Maryland, despite criticizing federal spending. 

The funds include $9 million for improvements and upgrades at the Middle River Fire Company, and $1 million for the development of a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, per Fox News.

"These awards are certified to directly benefit taxpayers in the district—drawing from existing grant programs that are funded annually," Harris told the outlet. "It’s far better for elected members of Congress to designate where that money goes than to leave those decisions to unelected federal bureaucrats."

Tennessee GOP Rep. Tim Burchett and House Freedom Caucus member Clay Higgins have gained approval for $10 million and $18 million for their constituents respectively. Burchett's includes funding for veteran housing.

Colorado GOP firebrand Rep. Lauren Boebert has secured nearly $15 million for community projects, which will go toward infrastructure and clean water programs.

"My district's roads are crumbling, and our water keeps getting sent to California, where it's wasted, because Colorado's politicians won't invest in water storage or infrastructure investments," Boebert said. "My constituents pay federal taxes just like everyone else, and they should see their dollars benefit their communities instead of being sent to sanctuary cities like Denver."

Another Republican firebrand, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, secured $10 million in earmarks for her district for law enforcement activities, infrastructure issues and clean water. The approval comes despite her recent attacks on the federal government for sending federal aid to foreign countries like Israel and Ukraine.

"I’m proud to bring federal tax dollars back home to Northwest Georgia – where they belong," Greene said, according to Fox News. "My constituents work hard, and for far too long, Washington has sent their money to fund foreign wars, foreign governments and globalist pet projects. 

"When I first got to Congress, I opposed the earmark process because I believed it was a tool of the Swamp," she continued. "But after seeing how it works today, I’ve realized that if we don’t fight to bring money back to our districts, the money goes elsewhere. I’ll never support billions for Ukraine or other endless wars, but I will absolutely fight to secure critical investments in Northwest Georgia, from water systems and sewer expansions to public safety equipment, roads and broadband."

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.