House Democrats’ Votes Propel Ukraine Aid Bill Over Critical Obstacle
TL/DR –
The U.S. House of Representatives has successfully pushed a long-delayed aid package to Ukraine, Israel, and other American allies past Republican opposition, with a 316-94 vote green-lighting the separate elements of the package for consideration on the House floor. The bill, which enjoys broad bipartisan support despite some resistance from the far-right, totals $95.3 billion and is seen as a significant victory for President Biden’s administration. Despite the bill’s passage relying heavily on a majority of Democratic votes due to lack of full Republican support, speakers from both sides lauded the move as crucial given the urgency of the geopolitical situation in Ukraine.
The House Moves Closer to Approving Aid to Ukraine and Israel
The House of Representatives has paved the way for approval of a much-delayed aid package for Ukraine, Israel and other American allies. The 316-94 vote overcame Republican opposition thanks to critical Democratic votes, setting up separate Saturday votes for each part of the package. With broad bipartisan support for the $95.3 billion package, the legislation seems set for success.
This move is a significant victory in the long-running effort to fund Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression. It signifies a defeat for isolationist forces within the Republican party and a rare instance of bipartisan consensus amidst a largely dysfunctional Congress.
Speaker Mike Johnson’s Risky Move Pays Off
Speaker Mike Johnson risked his own position to push through the plan. He turned to Democrats in an unusual break from House custom, securing the legislation’s passage. Democrats strategically held back their votes, but once it was clear that Republicans could not pass the measure alone, they voted in favor.
Democrats and Republicans Collaborate Amidst Opposition
It’s the second time in this Congress that Republicans have needed Democratic votes for crucial legislation. They have also needed their support for several key laws, including measures for government funding and an annual defense bill. Despite far-right opposition within the party, many Republicans spoke in favor of the aid package to support Ukraine and Israel.
Resistance from Far-Right Republicans
However, far-right Republicans expressed their dissatisfaction with the bill. Representative Thomas Massie, one of the most vocal opponents of the legislation, criticized the Speaker’s collaboration with Democrats. To navigate around his own party’s opposition, Mr. Johnson divided the package into three parts, adding a fourth bill to appease conservatives.
The Rule Allowing Separate Votes
The rule, a critical part of Mr. Johnson’s strategy, allows separate votes on aid to Israel and Ukraine. This avoids the need for a single vote on the entire bill, making this the only all-or-nothing vote on the aid package. It comprises a bundle of attractive proposals, including a bill mandating the sale of TikTok by its Chinese owner or a ban on the app in the US.
Future Prospects for the Aid Package
The crucial vote followed a House Rules Committee session where far-right lawmakers attempted to block the rule because it disallowed a vote on stringent border security provisions. Under the approved rule, Republicans will have two opportunities to eliminate or limit funding for Ukraine, but these attempts are expected to fail.
—
Read More US Political News