All articles tagged with #congressional appropriations
The White House announced the cancellation of $810 million in congressionally approved funding via a 'pocket rescission' just days before the fiscal year ends. Lawmakers from both parties condemned the move as illegal, arguing it bypasses congressional oversight. The cuts target immigrant services, minority business programs, and health research, following a similar tactic used last year for foreign aid.
President Trump’s promise of a $5,000 dividend for every adult American if Republicans win the midterms has triggered significant internal debate within the House GOP. While the President suggests the payout could bypass Congress, Speaker Mike Johnson and other leaders insist legislative approval is necessary. Lawmakers are divided on the funding source, with some citing the $40 trillion national debt and others proposing tax rebates or fraud recovery funds. The proposal, estimated to cost over $1 trillion, faces skepticism regarding its feasibility and potential impact on inflation.
The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 to allow construction of a $600 million White House ballroom to continue, finding that the National Trust for Historic Preservation and its member Alison Hoagland lacked standing to sue. Chief Justice John Roberts dissented, calling the project 'likely unlawful' and citing Winston Churchill to argue that buildings shape democratic character. The decision did not address the project's legality, leaving the question of whether Congress must approve the construction unresolved.
The White House has told key Republicans to expect a roughly $80 billion supplemental request to fund the Iran war, likely by week’s end, with funds intended to replenish missiles and cover ongoing operations. The move faces Democratic opposition and GOP navigations over timing and scope, as lawmakers weigh how defense spending should fit with other agenda items and broader reconciliation efforts.
Tensions rise over troop pay during the ongoing government shutdown, with some GOP lawmakers criticizing President Trump for bypassing Congress to fund military salaries through alternative means, while legislative efforts to address the issue face opposition and political maneuvering continues.
House Speaker Mike Johnson argues that it is logical to link Ukraine aid with funding for the U.S.-Mexico border, stating that the American people prioritize taking care of their own border first. He criticizes Democrats for not listening to their constituents and emphasizes the need to secure the border due to the high number of illegal crossings and the issues of fentanyl smuggling and human trafficking. Johnson also discusses the importance of changing the way Washington works and expresses support for offsetting spending instead of borrowing funds to fulfill obligations to allies like Israel.