The Senate voted Tuesday, July 15, to advance a $9 billion rescissions bill backed by President Donald Trump. The legislation would cancel previously approved funding for foreign aid and public broadcasting. It passed 51-50, with Vice President JD Vance casting the tie-breaking vote.
Three Republicans — Sens. Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, and Mitch McConnell of Kentucky — joined all Democrats in voting no.
The package includes $1.1 billion in cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and billions more from foreign aid programs.
Republicans view the measure as a first step toward broader budget reductions. Democrats warn it could undermine vital services and future bipartisan spending negotiations.
Why are some Republicans opposed?
Opponents raised concerns over both the process and lack of specifics.
Murkowski criticized the administration’s top-down approach and said lawmakers weren’t given enough detail about what would be cut.
Collins objected to defunding PBS and NPR, warning rural stations could lose critical emergency broadcasting capabilities.
Sen. Roger Wicker, who voted in favor, urged the administration to provide more clarity if similar packages are proposed again. “Let’s not make a habit of this,” he said.
What changes were made to gain support?
To secure additional Republican votes, Senate leaders removed $400 million in proposed cuts to PEPFAR, a global HIV/AIDS relief program. Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., supported the bill after the White House agreed to redirect funding for tribal radio stations through the Department of the Interior.
The Senate’s changes mean the bill must return to the House for another vote. Lawmakers must approve the measure by Friday, July 18, or the administration must release the frozen funds.
How have Democrats responded?
Democrats unanimously opposed the bill, arguing that the proposed savings are small compared to the GOP tax-and-spending bill passed earlier this month. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the cuts would harm trust in bipartisan budgeting.
“We are doing everything we can — everything we can to keep the bipartisan appropriations process going forward,” Schumer said.
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Author: Craig Nigrelli
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