US House Speaker Mike Johnson has revealed a complex proposal for wartime aid to be given to Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan. The proposal deviates from the $95 billion aid package that the Senate passed in February, which has put the final passage of the aid in doubt.
Johnson has refused to bow to pressure to approve the Senate’s package, opting instead for a single debate rule and separate votes on aid for the three countries. This move has sparked concerns about the aid’s uncertain path to approval.
The push for aid comes amidst escalating conflicts worldwide, including recent attacks in Israel and a new offensive in Ukraine. President Joe Biden and top House Democrat Hakeem Jeffries are urging the House to swiftly consider the Senate funding package.
Despite the urgency, Johnson has faced criticism for not allowing a vote on Biden’s security assistance request. Republican lawmakers are split on their approach to Ukraine aid, with some demanding proper security measures for the US border before providing aid.
Johnson’s stance could provoke further backlash from populist conservatives, with some even threatening to remove him as speaker. The House Freedom Caucus is particularly opposed to using the situation in Israel as a basis for aid to Ukraine without ensuring US border security.
As the debate rages on in the House, the fate of the wartime aid for Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan hangs in the balance. Stay tuned to The Bib Theorists for the latest updates on this crucial issue.
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