House Republicans on Wednesday approved the first batch of Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) cuts, which include $9.4 billion in funding reductions for public broadcasting and foreign aid. This decision is part of an effort to reduce wasteful spending and put taxpayer dollars to better use.
Key Details
- The legislation passed with a vote of 220-204.
- Speaker Mike Johnson described the bill as a significant step towards a more responsible government that prioritizes American taxpayers’ interests, stating, "This is a major victory for fiscal responsibility."
- Four Republicans joined all Democrats in voting against the bill due to concerns over cuts to public broadcasting and other provisions.
Context and Implications
The rescissions package is part of an effort by House Republicans to address the $36 trillion deficit. Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated that it is unlikely the Senate will take up the rescissions package until July, after completing work on tax cuts and spending bills.
President Trump’s Request
Earlier this year, President Donald Trump requested $8.3 billion in foreign aid be clawed back under DOGE. His reasons included:
- Supporting activities that could be funded by non-US donors.
- Promoting radical gender projects.
- Other areas where US funds are deemed unnecessary or ineffective.
Trump also called for cuts from various programs, including:
- USAID’s Global Health Security Agenda program at UNICEF.
- USAID’s global health security programs at WHO.
- UNICEF’s global health security programs at WHO.
- USAID’s global health security program with the World Bank’s Pandemic Fund.
Despite these requests, it remains unclear whether the proposed cuts will progress through Congress.
Related News
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- Rep.-elect George Santos (R-NY) was charged last week with making false statements about his background during his campaign, also denying any wrongdoing amid investigations.
- Rep.-elect Eric Greitens (R-MO), who was impeached from office as governor, faces allegations of using campaign donor money for personal expenses, including paying off blackmailers over intimate photos claimed to have been taken without consent.
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