US Senate Advances $95.3 Billion Foreign Aid Bill with Assistance for Ukraine and Israel
US Capitol | February 9, 2024
The Senate took a significant step closer to passing a $95.3 billion foreign aid bill aimed at providing assistance to Ukraine and Israel. Despite certain hurdles, the bill managed to move forward with a key vote, bringing it nearer to finalization.
The weekend session at the Senate was dedicated to deliberating the bill, but the final vote is expected to take place sometime in the coming week. Republican Senator Rand Paul from Kentucky currently remains a roadblock to swift progress, as he continues to impede the process.
This particular foreign aid package initially exceeded a significant 60-vote threshold, paving the way for further progress. The Senate then held additional procedural votes, and a comprehensive floor debate took place to build momentum for its passage.
Delay and Uncertainty
However, the Senate’s progress is contingent on securing the agreement of all 100 senators to expedite the process. In the absence of unanimous support, the Senate is expected to continue its work through Sunday afternoon, with the final vote scheduled for the following week.
House Uncertainty
Should the bill eventually clear the Senate, it will move on to the House of Representatives. Speaker Mike Johnson’s decision to hold a vote on the bill remains unclear due to considerable opposition from House Republicans who are wary of extending aid to Ukraine any further.
Super Bowl Complications
The timing of the vote on Sunday coincides with the highly anticipated Super Bowl, which could pose challenges to the Senate’s evaluation. To accommodate, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has set up a designated room adjacent to the Senate floor with provisions to ensure minimal disruption, allowing senators to balance their priority of legislating with the popular sporting event.
Optimism on Passage
Democratic Senator Chris Murphy expressed confidence that the bill, including crucial funds for Ukraine, will be passed by the Senate. He anticipated a successful outcome with the bill’s passage anticipated early to midweek.
History and Opposition
This positive trajectory of the foreign aid bill proceeds, despite its rocky path caused by Republican objections. Earlier, a more extensive bill combining foreign aid and a bipartisan border deal had been blocked by the Republicans. Demands to include border security measures within the bill had set off a chain of dramatic events, including the deal, facing opposition from former President Donald Trump and leading House Republicans.
Moreover, calls to halt foreign aid by former President Trump by restructuring it as a loan intensified the political pressure to overthrow the legislation.
Challenging Amendments
As the foreign aid bill gains traction, divisions have arisen within the Senate Republicans, some of whom are advocating for amendments to the bill. These amendments range from introducing measures related to immigration to border policies, further increasing the complexity and diversity of perspectives.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has conveyed his intent to reach consensus with the Republicans regarding the amendments, but it remains to be seen if both sides can establish a mutual agreement.
Comprehensive Aid Package
The extensive foreign aid package encompasses multiple regions and countries, ensuring assistance and resources in critical areas. The bill allocates $60 billion to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia, $14.1 billion in security assistance for Israel, and $9.2 billion in humanitarian aid for civilians residing in Gaza, the West Bank, and Ukraine.
Additionally, the bill sets aside $4.8 billion to support regional allies in the Indo-Pacific region, alongside other vital stipulations under the purview of the Senate Appropriations Committee.
Calls for Afghan Residency
As Senate deliberations continue, there is a growing plea for the approval of an amendment to grant permanent legal residency in the US to Afghans evacuated amid the US’ withdrawal from Afghanistan.
The amendment, co-introduced by Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar from Minnesota and Republican Senator Jerry Moran from Kansas, aims to provide stability and certainty for Afghan allies who have undergone thorough vetting in their efforts to establish a new life in the United States. However, Republican Senator Tom Cotton from Arkansas has impeded the progress of this amendment.
Looking Ahead
While additional procedural votes are expected, including one on Sunday, the true test lies in the Senate’s ability to navigate opposing viewpoints and ensure the bill continues to move forward smoothly. The deliberations on national debt and other related discussions are set to stretch for the foreseeable future.
Disclaimer
This story and headline continue to evolve with ongoing updates and further developments.
CNN’s Haley Britzkey contributed to this report.
