House Adopts $95.3 Billion Aid Package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan in Bipartisan Show of Support

House Passes $95.3 Billion Aid Package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan in Bipartisan Show of Support

In a rare display of bipartisan unity, the House adopted a rule on Friday to take up a $95.3 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. The vote of 316-94 for the rule signaled solid support for the aid package, which includes measures to increase sanctions on adversaries and force the divestiture of the Chinese-owned social media app TikTok.

Despite some Republicans opposing Ukraine aid and calling for tough border security measures, Democrats backed the procedural rule to ensure the aid package would pass. The rule’s structure allowed members to vote for the parts they supported and against those they didn’t, helping to bring along Democrats who had concerns about certain aspects of the package.

The need for bipartisan support was evident as the Freedom Caucus announced its opposition to the rule, highlighting the delicate balance of power in the House. Speaker Mike Johnson faced a threat to his position from Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene if a Ukraine measure advanced, but Johnson remained focused on what he believed was important for the country.

The aid package, which includes economic aid to Ukraine structured as a loan, also imposes sanctions on Russia and Iran, among other measures. The House Rules chairman, Rep. Michael C. Burgess, emphasized the importance of supporting allies in the Indo-Pacific, Israel, and Ukraine to prevent aggression.

The Senate is expected to give up part of its planned Passover recess to quickly pass the aid package for President Joe Biden’s signature. The Senate will receive the package as an amendment to its foreign aid supplemental, cutting down on procedural votes and expediting the process.

The aid bills for Ukraine, Israel, and the Indo-Pacific region align with the Senate package, with additional provisions such as allowing for the seizure of frozen Russian assets to help pay for Ukraine assistance. The Biden administration urged support for the package, emphasizing the importance of American leadership at a pivotal moment.

Overall, the passage of the aid package represents a significant bipartisan effort to support key allies and address global challenges, showcasing the strength of American leadership in times of need.