Congress rushes to approve aid for Israel and Ukraine ahead of Christmas
Congressional Leaders Aim to Pass Urgent Aid for Ukraine and Israel
Congressional leaders are working diligently to pass crucial aid for Ukraine and Israel before the end of the year. This legislation, which is paired with border policy changes to gain GOP support, is of utmost importance.
The House and Senate acted swiftly last week to prevent a government shutdown, but unfortunately, assistance for these war-torn countries was left out. While aid for Israel has overwhelming support in Congress, there has been resistance from conservatives regarding the $61 billion it would provide to Ukraine out of the requested $105 billion supplemental from the White House.
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As a result, the legislation is now in a state of uncertainty as the United States’ committed funds for the conflict begin to dwindle. Senators from both sides of the aisle believe that the supplemental can still be passed if the working group negotiating over the border can reach an agreement. However, time is running short, and they are determined to get the bill to President Joe Biden’s desk by Christmas.
“I think it is going to need to have an immigration component if it has any chance of getting done before the end of the year,” said one Senate aide. “But when you inject such a hot-button issue like immigration into this, it definitely makes it all a little more difficult.”
“If this doesn’t get accomplished before the end of the year, it’s hard to see a scenario in which all of these priorities get accomplished in the new year,” the aide added.
Earlier this month, a working group led by Senators Lindsey Graham, James Lankford, and Tom Cotton released a proposal for comprehensive changes to immigration law, modeled after H.R. 2, the House Republicans’ signature border bill. This blueprint aims to restrict immigrants’ ability to enter or stay in the country once apprehended and would require the president to resume border wall construction.
Democrats have expressed concerns that the immigration proposal closely mirrors the rejected House Republicans’ bill. However, in light of the risk to Ukraine aid, Democrats have agreed to negotiate narrower changes to immigration law.
Senator Chris Murphy, part of the working group seeking a compromise, stated last week that Democrats are engaged in conversation, but there is still progress to be made. “We’re definitely listening to Republicans, all the Republican concerns, they’re hearing our priorities,” Murphy said.
Murphy initially hoped that talks could conclude before the holiday, but it became evident that the discussions would extend into the weeks leading up to the Christmas break.
“We need to get this all done by the end of the year, before the end of the year, the supplemental,” emphasized Senator Graham. “I am very supportive of Ukraine, but this is the best chance I’ve seen to get something real on the border. This is unsustainable.”
The Senate GOP leadership insists that Republican support for additional funding for Ukraine is contingent on implementing stricter immigration policies, given the growing concerns at the border with Mexico. This requirement stems from the need to secure approval from the Republican-led House, where Speaker Mike Johnson is demanding border policy changes in exchange for further support.
The House has already passed a stand-alone bill to provide Israel with $14.3 billion in funding. However, this bill included cuts to the IRS that were swiftly rejected by Senate Democrats. Consequently, aid for Israel remains uncertain as senators strive to broker a Ukraine-border deal.
“I think Democrats are going through the stages of grief, and eventually they will get to acceptance that they are not going to get a package absent of a strong border security provision,” said Senator John Thune, the No. 2 Republican in the Senate. “The policy that we put out there was really strong.”
In October, the White House released a supplemental request, seeking funds to hire additional Border Patrol agents and asylum officers, among other border-related funding requests. However, Republicans argue that policy changes are necessary to address the influx of immigrants at the southern border. Additionally, there is a lack of trust that the Biden administration would effectively implement any agreed-upon changes.
“We’ve still got to overcome that foundational hurdle,” said Senator Thom Tillis, a Republican member of the border working group. “Our members are absolutely calling for something measurable. They don’t trust the administration to implement just based on funding provisions. We need provisions that have the effect of law to get them to follow through.”
Tillis, who supports funding for both Israel and Ukraine, emphasized the urgency of approving aid for both countries. “I really don’t know how long it will take, but I am very concerned as we’re pushing into January and February, and we are reaching a critical point,” he said.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER
What measures can be implemented to address both the urgent aid needs of Ukraine and Israel and the immigration concerns at the same time
Address the ongoing immigration challenges facing the country and to prevent potential security risks.
As the negotiations continue, it is crucial for both parties to find common ground and prioritize the urgent aid for Ukraine and Israel. The situation in Ukraine remains dire, with ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises. The requested $61 billion in aid is crucial to support the Ukrainian government and its efforts to provide stability and necessary resources for its citizens. Similarly, assistance for Israel is crucial to ensure its security and stability in the region.
While conservatives may have concerns about the size of the requested aid package, it is important to remember the significance of supporting our allies in their time of need. Ukraine and Israel have been strategic partners and essential allies for the United States, and it is in our best interest to help them overcome the challenges they face.
Furthermore, it is imperative to reach an agreement on border policy changes to gain GOP support for the aid package. Immigration is a complex issue that requires careful consideration, but it should not hinder the timely provision of aid to Ukraine and Israel. By addressing the concerns and finding a compromise on immigration, Congress can ensure the passage of the urgent aid legislation.
Time is of the essence, with the end of the year approaching quickly. Congressional leaders must act swiftly to pass the aid package and send it to President Biden’s desk for approval. The holiday season should not deter or delay this critical legislation. It is crucial to demonstrate the United States’ commitment to supporting its allies and providing assistance in times of need.
In conclusion, the passage of urgent aid for Ukraine and Israel is of utmost importance. The ongoing negotiations over border policy changes present an opportunity for both parties to find common ground and prioritize the needs of war-torn countries. Time is running short, and it is imperative for Congress to pass this legislation and provide the necessary support to Ukraine and Israel. By doing so, the United States can demonstrate its unwavering commitment to its allies and its willingness to address global challenges effectively.
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