House to consider $95 billion in foreign aid bills despite strong opposition

Republican Speaker Mike Johnson announced that the House of Representatives will finally vote on aid for Ukraine, Israel, and the Indo-Pacific potentially as soon as Saturday. Despite opposition from some members of the Republican party, Johnson is pushing for the legislation’s passage.

The proposed legislation by the House Appropriations Committee includes over $95 billion in security assistance. This includes $60.84 billion to address the conflict in Ukraine, with a significant portion going towards replenishing U.S. weapons and supplies. The bill also allocates $26.38 billion for Israel, part of which will cover recent military operations, and $9.1 billion for humanitarian needs.

The urgency for security aid increased after Iran’s recent attacks on Israel following an airstrike believed to be conducted by Israel on Iran’s embassy in Damascus. Additionally, the Indo-Pacific region will receive $8.12 billion in aid.

Johnson has given House members until midday Saturday to review the legislation and propose amendments before the final vote. In response to conservative demands, a separate border security bill will also be released alongside the aid package.

President Joe Biden has urged Congress to pass the bill quickly, emphasizing support for allies and opposition to Iran and Russia. The Senate previously passed a similar $95 billion foreign assistance package with bipartisan support, but Johnson delayed the House vote due to objections from hard-right members.

The House should expect to see Democrat support as well, crucial given the narrow Republican majority and opposition from far-right members. Representative Rosa DeLauro and House Democrat Leader Hakeem Jeffries expressed support for the bill. Senate Democrat Leader Chuck Schumer will review the legislation before deciding.

Despite threats from some members to remove Johnson, he remains committed to supporting Ukraine and passing the aid package. Concerns from both left and right sides about sending aid to Israel and immigration issues will shape the final decision on the legislation.

In addition to the aid package, the House Rules Committee will introduce a fourth national security measure, including the REPO Act, House TikTok bill, and sanctions legislation. The REPO Act aims to support Ukraine by transferring seized Russian assets. The House will also consider a bill to force TikTok’s Chinese owner to divest U.S. assets or face a ban.

Johnson has assured a separate border security bill to address immigration concerns. With the upcoming elections deciding control of the government, Republican members are pushing for increased security funding at the Mexico border.