Senate Advances $9.4B Cuts Foreign Aid, Public Broadcasting

President Donald Trump is pushing a $9.4 billion rescissions package aimed at canceling previously approved government spending on foreign aid and public broadcasting, including $8.3 billion for aid programs and $1.1 billion for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. Senate Republicans, led by Majority Leader John Thune, are advancing the bill, arguing it targets wasteful government spending, though some GOP senators have expressed concerns about the impact on popular programs like PEPFAR and local media outlets. Vice President JD Vance broke a 50-50 tie in the Senate, allowing the bill to move forward, with a final vote expected soon. Democrats oppose the measure, warning it could undermine bipartisan budget negotiations and lead to deeper cuts in healthcare, food assistance, and energy programs. The White House negotiated adjustments to sustain some tribal radio grants and tried to secure enough support to pass the bill before a looming Friday deadline. Critics warn the proposal threatens essential health initiatives and rural news services, and could weaken the Senate filibuster by granting the majority unilateral budget-cutting powers.