US Congress Adopts $9 Billion Cuts to International Aid, Public Broadcasting

The U.S. Senate narrowly approved a $9 billion spending cuts package championed by President Donald Trump, primarily targeting international aid through USAID and funding for public broadcasters NPR and PBS. The measure, which excludes a $400 million cut to AIDS prevention following Senate negotiations, now returns to the House of Representatives for final approval, where it is expected to pass despite internal Republican divisions. Key conservative members of the House Freedom Caucus have expressed cautious optimism about the bill, viewing any reduction in federal spending as a positive first step, although some desired deeper cuts. The cuts have sparked criticism from some Republicans over impacts on global health programs and local public broadcasting, particularly in rural areas, while the Trump administration frames the move as necessary fiscal responsibility amid the growing federal debt. These developments come amid broader partisan tensions and legislative challenges in Congress, with some far-right lawmakers causing delays in other key bills. Public protests are also planned nationwide in opposition to several Trump administration policies, reflecting ongoing political polarization.