Senate Votes to Pass $95 Billion Emergency Aid Bill for Ukraine and Israel
The Senate on Sunday successfully moved forward with a $95 billion emergency aid bill for Ukraine and Israel. The bipartisan vote of 67-27 kept the bill on track for passage within the coming days. The aid package includes $60.1 billion to assist Kyiv in its war against Russian aggression, $14.1 billion for Israel in its conflict with Hamas, and nearly $10 billion in humanitarian aid for civilians in conflict zones. The bill also addresses threats to the Indo-Pacific region. Senate leaders hope to approve the legislation as early as Tuesday.
Importance of United States Senate’s Action
The eyes of the world are on the United States Senate, according to Senator Mitch McConnell. McConnell, Republican of Kentucky and the minority leader, urged his colleagues to support the bill, emphasizing that U.S. allies cannot pretend that dangerous aggressors are someone else’s problem. Senator Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York and the majority leader, commended Republicans for working in good faith and stressed the essential nature of passing the legislation. He declared that the bill significantly impacts national security, the security of allies, and the security of Western democracy.
Hurdles in the Republican-led House
Despite the bipartisan endorsement in the Senate, the bill still faces opposition in the Republican-led House. Some Republicans argue against sending billions of dollars to bolster Ukraine’s security without first securing the U.S.-Mexico border. Others take issue with the allocation of funds for humanitarian aid and Ukraine’s domestic infrastructure. Former President Donald J. Trump has fueled resistance against the bill, urging Republican lawmakers to reject it. House G.O.P. leaders have promised to oppose the bill, aligning with Trump’s stance.
Defending Ukraine and Sending a Signal to Dictators
Democrats and a determined bloc of Republicans, led by Senator Mitch McConnell, have emphasized the importance of providing military aid to Ukraine to defend against Russian aggression. They believe that deterrence is not divisible and American credibility is at stake. Senator Dan Sullivan, Republican of Alaska, stated that it is crucial to be strong in both the Taiwan Strait and Ukraine. Democrats predict that enough Republicans will ultimately reject President Trump’s pressure for the Senate to pass the bill.
Foreign Assistance Package Progress
The bipartisan coalition that has carried the bill this far will need to stay united through a few more votes before the Senate can approve the foreign assistance package and send it to the House. Speaker Mike Johnson is facing threats from the right to oust him if he brings a Ukraine aid bill to the floor. Republicans have insisted on proposing revisions to the bill before voting on its passage.
Revisions and Partisan Proposals
The Republican wish list for revisions to the bill primarily focuses on the southwestern border. They have proposed measures to mirror a restrictive border enforcement bill and to strip economic assistance for Ukraine. Democrats have their own demands for revisions, including proposals for lawful permanent residence for certain undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children. It is unlikely that either side will be able to add these provisions to the final bill.
The Super Bowl and Continued Voting
Senators are making plans to watch the Super Bowl while in session. Aides are ensuring that extra televisions are available in the Capitol and ordering pizza in case voting continues throughout the evening.
Read More of this Story at www.nytimes.com – 2024-02-11 19:23:03
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