Article Summary –
The U.S. House of Representatives took a critical step towards approving a $95.3 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and other allies, with Democrats providing crucial votes for the legislation against Republican opposition. The legislation comes as part of President Biden’s effort to support Ukraine against Russian aggression, with the move seen as a victory against right-wing isolationism. The bill’s passage required the assistance of 165 Democrat votes, alongside 149 from Republicans, after speaker Mike Johnson was forced to violate House customs to advance the legislation.
House Approves Aid Package for Ukraine and Israel
On Friday, the House took a significant step towards approving a long-awaited aid package to Ukraine, Israel, and other United States allies. The 316-94 vote was a crucial turning point, allowing the aid package to be considered on the floor, despite Republican opposition. This marks a significant victory for President Biden, who has faced pushback from the right in his efforts to fund Ukraine amidst Russian aggression.
Bipartisan Support for the Aid Package
In a rare show of bipartisan support, the bill was passed with more Democratic votes, but also won a majority of GOP votes. Despite some resistance from the far right, the $95.3 billion package enjoys broad bipartisan support. Democrats played a crucial role with their votes once it was clear that the Republican support was insufficient.
Speaker Mike Johnson’s Role
Speaker Mike Johnson risked his position to push the plan through despite objections within his party. This move further jeopardized his position even as it paved the way for the legislation to be voted on and approved. He was forced to rely on Democrats, breaking with House custom.
Republicans Relying on Democrats
This is the second time during this Congress that Republicans have had to rely on Democratic votes to even bring to the floor legislation to address a critical issue. Previous instances included last year’s vote to suspend the debt ceiling bill and avoid a federal default. On Friday, 55 Republicans voted against their speaker’s agenda.
Aid Package Opposition
Still, the far-right flank of the Republican conference opposed the bill. Representative Thomas Massie, a vocal opponent of the legislation, expressed concern that the speaker had struck a deal with Democrats to fund foreign wars rather than bolster domestic security.
Aid Package Strategy
Johnson managed to navigate around opposition by breaking down the package into three parts, adding a fourth bill to appeal to conservatives. The rule was critical to Johnson’s strategy as it allows separate votes on aid to Israel and aid to Ukraine, which are supported by different coalitions, but then folds them together without requiring lawmakers to cast an up-or-down vote on the entire bill.
Further Votes and Future Direction
The rule approved on Friday allows Republicans two chances to zero out or limit the funding for Ukraine. These efforts are expected to fail, proving the strength of bipartisan support for the aid package.
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