House Moves Closer to Passing Bill for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan
WASHINGTON — The House overcame a significant procedural obstacle on Friday, advancing legislation aimed at providing substantial security funding for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The vote to approve the rule for debate on the package received broad bipartisan support, with 316 votes in favor and 94 against.
Dems Lead the Charge
Democrats led the way with 165 votes in favor and 39 opposing, while Republicans followed closely with 151 votes in favor and 55 against. House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed relief that the rule passed, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling crucial international commitments.
Final Passage Expected
The House is set to vote on the final passage of the bill on Saturday afternoon, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer urging senators to be prepared for a weekend session to vote on the measure. President Biden has indicated his intention to sign the bill into law.
Key Points of the Legislation
The legislation includes funding of $26.4 billion for Israel, $60.8 billion for Ukraine, and $8.1 billion to address challenges posed by China in the Indo-Pacific region, with a focus on supporting Taiwan. The package also encompasses provisions to address Russian oligarch assets, TikTok sale, and sanctions on Russia, China, and Iran.
House Divisions and Speaker’s Decision
The debate over foreign aid has exposed deep divisions within House Republicans, with some members threatening to challenge Speaker Johnson over the bill. Johnson defended his stance, emphasizing the critical importance of supporting Ukraine during these turbulent times.
Path Forward
If the bills pass the House, they will be consolidated into a single package for Senate consideration. President Biden’s call for swift action aligns with the urgency to address the pressing international issues at hand.