In a bold move, Speaker Mike Johnson announced that the U.S. House will vote on a long-stalled national security spending package to aid Israel, Ukraine, and other U.S. allies. This decision comes after weeks of deliberation and resistance from the far-right faction of his conference.
The legislative package, which mirrors the $95 billion aid bill passed by the Senate, will be divided into separate votes for aid to Israel, Ukraine, and allies like Taiwan. Additionally, there will be a vote on policies popular among Republicans. However, the path forward is complex and success in the House is uncertain.
With a tenuous hold on his caucus and a slim majority, Johnson faces challenges from Republicans who may try to block the package. Even if the legislation passes, it will require bipartisan coalitions to succeed. The plan could also jeopardize Johnson’s speakership, which is already under threat of being ousted.
This development in foreign aid legislation highlights the political tensions and power struggles within the U.S. House, setting the stage for a crucial vote that could have far-reaching implications for U.S. foreign policy.