The U.S. House struggled to advance President Trump's $9 billion funding cuts to public media and foreign aid, facing Republican infighting, including issues related to Jeffrey Epstein. Republicans were poised to vote on the package, altered by the Senate. A late complication involved Republicans seeking an amendment for more Epstein investigation transparency.
Conspiracy theories surrounding Epstein have surrounded the White House. Democrats criticized the Republican leadership. It's unclear if an Epstein amendment will be included. Pressure is on Republicans, as the administration must spend the money if cuts aren't approved by Friday.
The final vote could be close. Democrats will fight the cuts. The $9 billion is a small portion of the federal budget. Republicans say foreign aid funds are wasteful and public media is biased.
Funding cuts are usually bipartisan. Democratic leaders warned this could damage bipartisanship. The administration has also held up significant funds. The White House indicated more spending-cut requests are likely. Funding bills need bipartisan support, unlike the funding cut package.
5 Comments
Loubianka
This is clearly a distraction. Instead of focusing on Epstein, let’s discuss how these cuts affect everyday Americans.
BuggaBoom
It’s disturbing how this administration treats foreign aid like a mere bargaining chip. Lives are at stake!
Eugene Alta
The government needs to operate within its means. These cuts can help streamline processes and save money.
Raphael
Bipartisanship is key, but cutting unnecessary spending also needs to be a priority. Let’s encourage fiscal responsibility!
Donatello
Wasteful spending? Tell that to the citizens who rely on public media for unbiased news.