Summary
Senate Republicans moved forward with a plan to cancel about $9 billion in spending that was already approved, following President Trump's request. The decision was close, with a 50-50 Senate vote, and the Vice President broke the tie. The bill needs more votes in both the Senate and the House before President Trump can sign it.
Key Facts
- Senate Republicans supported cutting $9 billion in previously approved spending.
- The Senate vote was tied at 50-50, and the Vice President broke the tie.
- A final Senate vote could happen as soon as Wednesday.
- The bill would need another vote in the House before it goes to the President.
- A proposed $400 million cut to a program fighting HIV/AIDS, called PEPFAR, was removed from the bill.
- The President also aims to reduce spending on foreign aid and public broadcasting.
- Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasized the need to control spending due to a $36 trillion national debt.
