Senate Approves Trump-Backed Rescission Bill, Cutting $9 Billion in Federal Spending

In a late-night session, the Republican-controlled Senate narrowly approved a Trump-endorsed rescission bill by a 51-48 vote. The bill slashes nearly $9 billion in federal spending, including the full defunding of PBS and NPR and significant cuts to U.S. foreign aid. Only two GOP senators, Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, joined Democrats in opposing the measure. Sen. Tina Smith was absent due to a hospital stay. The bill underwent a vote-a-rama, a series of rapid votes on amendments. Vice President JD Vance was present but did not need to break any ties. Senate Majority Leader John Thune praised the bill as a step toward fiscal sanity, noting the importance of reducing waste in the budget. Concerns were raised about the impact of cuts on public broadcasting, particularly in rural areas, as highlighted by Collins and Murkowski. The bill also reduces foreign aid by $8 billion, affecting programs that provide emergency shelter, food, and healthcare in crisis situations, including a $4.15 billion cut to programs supporting democratic institutions in developing nations. The bill now returns to the House for final approval, where it is expected to pass quickly. President Trump is set to sign it into law by Friday, marking another step in his agenda to control federal spending.

Published: 7/17/2025