WASHINGTON — Key Senate Republicans are voicing concerns over a proposed $9 billion reduction in funding for foreign aid and public broadcasting, requested by President Donald Trump, as they approach a crucial vote. Despite these apprehensions, many senators indicated they would still back the bill, which is set for a final vote as soon as Wednesday evening.
Amendments to the spending cuts package began on Wednesday, following a narrow advance with a 51-50 vote, aided by a tie-breaking vote from Vice President JD Vance. Senators Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, and Mitch McConnell of Kentucky joined Democrats in opposing the measure, citing a lack of clarity from the White House regarding the implementation of the cuts. Their positions are particularly significant, as all are prominent members of the Appropriations Committee.
The remaining 50 Republican senators’ support is essential for the bill’s passage. Some Republican lawmakers are wary of the legislation, which utilizes an expedited process that allows Congress to cancel previously approved spending with a simple majority. Senator Thom Tillis from North Carolina expressed his intention to support the package but also raised alarms about potential unintended consequences. Tillis acknowledged the risks involved, suggesting that the cuts could lead the government to revisit certain issues in the future.
Senator Roger Wicker, chair of the Armed Services Committee, described his backing of the bill as cautious. He remarked that it is concerning for Congress to defer decisions related to budget cuts to the executive branch. Wicker underscored the legislative branch’s constitutional responsibility, expressing discomfort with the idea of relinquishing such decisions to the Office of Management and Budget.
Despite his reservations, Wicker noted the pressing need to address what he termed a “budget crisis,” reinforcing his intention to support the measure. He contended that the needs of the moment outweigh his concerns about the legislative process.
McConnell, who previously led the Senate GOP, criticized the White House for not providing sufficient detail about how the proposed cuts would be executed. He emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in the budget process, asserting that lawmakers deserve more than a “blank check” from the administration.
If the Senate approves the spending cuts, the measure will return to the House for further consideration before President Trump can sign it into law. Senators are expected to amend the original House bill, which passed with a slim 214-212 vote, to remove $400 million in cuts to PEPFAR, the foreign aid initiative aimed at combating HIV/AIDS. The clock is ticking, as Congress has 45 days to act on the rescissions package following its submission to the president’s desk, with the deadline approaching this Friday.