In a narrow 51-48 vote, the US Senate has approved a controversial $9 billion rescissions package aimed at slashing funds previously authorized by Congress. The bill targets foreign aid and public broadcasting, marking a significant step in the Trump administration’s broader fiscal tightening agenda. This decision has sparked bipartisan debate over its potential implications for global health programs and rural media infrastructure.
What Is the Rescissions Package?
The rescissions package is a legislative tool that allows Congress to revoke previously approved funding. This $9 billion rollback is part of ongoing efforts by the Republican-led Senate to curtail federal spending and deliver on President Donald Trump’s commitment to reducing the fiscal deficit.
The bill now returns to the House of Representatives, which earlier passed a slightly different version with $9.4 billion in proposed cuts.
Foreign Aid and Global Health Impacted
A significant portion of the cuts—around $8 billion—will come from international assistance, including funding for global health initiatives under the US Agency for International Development (USAID).
Initially, the House version proposed eliminating $400 million from Pepfar, the US’s global HIV/AIDS program. However, after substantial pushback, a Senate amendment preserved this funding. Despite this, many other global aid programs remain on the chopping block.
Cuts to Public Broadcasting Raise Concerns
More than $1 billion will be slashed from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which funds radio and television services nationwide. Critics argue these cuts will disproportionately affect rural communities, where public radio stations often serve as vital sources of information.
Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska was among the few Republicans opposing the bill, citing concerns about its impact on public broadcasting in remote regions.
Partisan Divide and Political Repercussions
The vote took place during an intense overnight session known as a “vote-a-rama,” highlighting deep divisions within Congress.
While Republicans see the package as a long-overdue measure to rein in government spending, Democrats and some moderate Republicans argue it undermines critical services at home and abroad.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune defended the move, calling it “a small but important step toward fiscal sanity.” Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed frustration that the Senate version altered their original proposal, stating: “We wanted them to pass it unaltered like we did.”
What Happens Next?
The rescissions package now returns to the House for reconciliation. Both chambers must agree on a final version before Friday, or the bill will expire—eliminating the Republicans’ window to implement these cuts. The outcome remains uncertain as lawmakers negotiate the final contours of the legislation.
The Senate’s approval of the $9 billion spending cuts reflects growing urgency within Republican ranks to address rising federal expenditures. However, with vital programs in public health and broadcasting on the line, the bill’s final fate will depend on intense negotiations in the House over the next 48 hours.