US House Approves $9.4B Foreign Aid, Broadcasting Cuts

The U.S. House of Representatives narrowly approved President Donald Trump's proposal to cut $9.4 billion from foreign aid and public broadcasting, passing the bill with a 214-212 vote. This legislation, which reflects Trump's 'America First' policy, aims to redirect funds from international programs and public media to prioritize domestic spending, though it has faced opposition from Democrats and some Republicans concerned about its impact on U.S. global standing and humanitarian aid. The cuts target agencies such as the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and U.S. foreign aid programs, including those addressing global AIDS. The Trump administration employed a rarely used rescissions tool allowing the cancellation of previously appropriated funds, which requires only a simple majority in the Senate for approval, a strategic advantage given the slim Republican majority. Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated the Senate might not consider the bill until July and could modify it, with some GOP senators, including Susan Collins, expressing reservations about the cuts and seeking changes. House GOP leaders, after internal negotiations and assurances about preserving some AIDS funding, managed to secure enough support to pass the measure, though its fate in the Senate remains uncertain.