House lawmakers have advanced a $95 billion foreign aid package designed to counter Russian, Iranian, and Chinese aggression, with a potential floor vote looming over the weekend.
In a noteworthy display of bipartisanship, Democrats on the House Rules Committee joined Republicans in a 9-3 vote Thursday night, endorsing additional military assistance and humanitarian aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, as reported by CNN.
However, some Republican committee members, including Thomas Massie of Kentucky, Chip Roy of Texas, and Ralph Norman of South Carolina, voiced opposition, citing concerns over border security priorities.
Ukraine and Israel Flag (Credits: Israel Hayom)
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., defended the compromise, acknowledging limitations due to the slim majority held by Republicans in the chamber.
Despite reservations, Johnson assured Republicans of an opportunity to vote on a bill encompassing key components of a border security package passed last year.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, threatening action against Johnson over the aid package, attempted to disrupt proceedings with a series of amendments, including one mandating lawmakers supporting Ukraine funding to enlist in the nation’s military, per Newsweek.
Ukraine and Israel Aid (Credits: The Hill)
Massie supported Greene’s efforts, aiming to prevent potential exclusion from further debate once the aid package is approved, according to the New York Post.
Expressing skepticism towards the House bills mirroring Senate legislation, Massie cautioned against aligning too closely with the agendas of President Joe Biden and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.
The aid package allocates $60.84 billion for Ukraine, $26.38 billion for Israel, and $8.12 billion for the Indo-Pacific, with a remarkable portion earmarked for Taiwan, as reported by the New York Post.
