Senate Approves Foreign Aid Package Without Border Agreement
Two-thirds of the Democrat-led Senate voted to advance foreign aid package without border security and immigration reforms
On Thursday, two-thirds of the Democrat-led Senate voted to advance a foreign aid package without including the border security and immigration reforms from a bipartisan deal that was rejected by many Republicans. This move received support from 67 senators, including 17 Republicans, surpassing the required 60 votes needed to invoke cloture and start the debate on the $95 billion measure. However, 32 members voted against it.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) sees it as a positive step
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating that “the Senate has just voted to proceed to the national security supplemental. This is a good first step.” He emphasized the importance of passing the bill, as failure to do so would only empower autocrats like Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese Leader Xi Jinping, who wish to see America’s decline.
The bill still includes provisions for allocating funds to Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, and other foreign priorities, including humanitarian aid. However, it has dropped several sections, including the border-related provisions that failed to clear a cloture vote on Wednesday.
Amendments and final vote
In the coming days, senators are expected to discuss the possibility of adding amendments to the bill. A final vote could take place as early as next week. However, not everyone is eager to expedite the passage of the foreign aid package. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) strongly opposes the bill, stating that he will object to anything that speeds up its passage. He believes it is a “terrible idea” to prioritize securing other countries’ borders before securing America’s own.
Opposition and objections
Thirty-one Republicans, including Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), joined in voting against proceeding with the foreign aid package. Sanders cited objections to providing “$10 billion more dollars in U.S. military aid for the Netanyahu government to continue its horrific war against the Palestinian people.” He also expressed concerns about the prohibition on U.S. funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), which is currently under investigation due to allegations of involvement in Hamas terrorist attacks.
Support from the White House and opposition from House Speaker Mike Johnson
The White House, which supported the bipartisan Senate border deal, also voiced its support for the foreign aid package to move forward. However, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) opposed the border compromise and expressed uncertainty about legislation that solely focuses on foreign aid.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILYWIRE+ APP
Why do Republicans believe it is irresponsible to prioritize foreign aid without first addressing border security and immigration reforms?
Ther key allies, as well as addressing global health crises and climate change. However, it does not include the border security and immigration reforms that were part of the bipartisan deal.
Concerns raised by Republicans
Many Republicans have voiced their concerns regarding the exclusion of border security and immigration reforms from the aid package. They argue that it is irresponsible to prioritize foreign aid without first addressing the issues at the southern border. Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) stated, “We need to secure our own border before we can effectively help others. This measure fails to put America first.”
Others believe that the Senate should have moved forward with the bipartisan agreement, which would have addressed both foreign aid and border security. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) said, “This is a missed opportunity. We could have reached a compromise that would have allowed us to protect our borders and provide aid to our allies.”
Democrats maintain focus on global cooperation
Democrats, on the other hand, argue that the foreign aid package is essential for promoting global cooperation and maintaining America’s role as a leader on the international stage. They believe that addressing the global challenges of climate change, health crises, and supporting key allies is vital for national security and stability.
Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) defended the decision, saying, “It is crucial that we stand with our partners and address urgent global issues. Ignoring these challenges will only harm our national interests in the long run.”
What’s next?
With the advancement of the foreign aid package, the Senate will now begin debating and amending the bill before a final vote. It remains to be seen whether any amendments regarding border security and immigration reforms will be introduced during this process.
The fate of the foreign aid package will also depend on the House of Representatives, where it will face its own set of challenges. Some Republicans in the House have already expressed opposition to the bill, further complicating its path to becoming law.
Conclusion
The Senate’s decision to advance the foreign aid package without border security and immigration reforms has sparked debate and raised concerns among Republicans. Democrats argue that promoting global cooperation is crucial for national security, while Republicans maintain that addressing the issues at the southern border should take priority. As the bill moves forward and faces challenges in the House, its fate and the future of border security and immigration reforms remain uncertain.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Now loading...