Senate Passes $9 Billion Budget
Senate Approves Spending Cuts
The U.S. Senate narrowly passed a $9 billion federal spending cut in a 51-48 vote, aiming for more economical governance. Supported by President Trump’s administration, the bill focuses on “eliminating wasteful spending and redirecting funds toward essential services.”
Key Cuts and Criticism
The package cuts foreign aid and ends funding for public broadcasters like NPR and PBS. Some Republicans, including Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, opposed the bill, calling it unclear. Collins said the $2.5 billion cut to Development Assistance “lacked detail on which programs… would be affected.” Murkowski stressed the importance of local stations for emergencies, citing “recent tsunami alerts in Alaska.”
Amendments and Support
Collins and Murkowski proposed amendments to reduce cuts and protect public broadcasting. Senator Mark Kelly introduced an amendment to lower cuts to $6 billion. Supporters like Senator Eric Schmitt praised the bill as “responsible governance” and a model for future savings.
Next Steps
The package now goes to the House for final approval. Backers view it as a move toward “long-term fiscal responsibility and more focused budget management.”
