McConnell Doubts Border & Ukraine Aid Deal Amid GOP Opposition
TL/DR –
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell has expressed skepticism regarding a deal to tighten immigration laws, citing GOP opposition and potential negative effects on Ukraine aid. This marks a shift for McConnell, who had been pushing for a bipartisan agreement to pass border legislation and a foreign aid bill together. His comments indicate concern that Donald Trump’s opposition to the deal and growing GOP disinterest in establishing an immigration agreement may make it difficult to secure Republican support.
In a recent special Republican session, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell expressed skepticism about an upcoming immigration law tightening deal. McConnell warned of GOP opposition and potential implications on Ukraine aid.
This concern signals a major shift for McConnell who has been advocating for a bipartisan deal to pass both the immigration legislation and foreign aid bill in the Senate and House. “The politics on this have changed”, McConnell told Republicans.
The change comes amidst Donald Trump’s push for the Republican presidential nomination, with some Republicans becoming increasingly critical of McConnell.
McConnell highlighted Trump’s political maneuvering at the border against President Biden, adding that they “don’t want to do anything to undermine him.”
A person familiar with Republican deliberations mentioned growing GOP concerns over striking an immigration deal, leading to questioning the link between the border deal and Ukraine funding.
Unlinking the measures could risk both aspects. The proposal to associate Ukraine aid with immigration restrictions originated from House Republican leaders. Concerns linger about gaining House approval, even if the Senate passes a Ukraine and Israel aid bill.
McConnell quoted Trump during his comments, emphasizing the political difficulty. McConnell remains hopeful, stating: “We’re still working, trying to get an outcome.”
Meanwhile, Senate conservatives criticized the upcoming bipartisan deal, claiming it doesn’t go far enough. Senators, including Ted Cruz and Ron Johnson, criticized McConnell’s endorsement of the negotiations.
Sen. Thom Tillis, a supporter of the emerging deal, claims it needs the backing of at least half of the 49 GOP senators for passage. “We need at least 25 voting for this or it’s a waste of time,” Tillis said.
—
Read More US News