On June 12, 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a controversial bill to reclaim $9.4 billion in previously approved spending, targeting key programs including foreign aid and public broadcasting. The vote, which passed by a slim margin of 214–212, highlights the growing divide over how federal dollars should be spent and reflects the resurgence of a Trump-era agenda.
🎯 Key Targets of the Funding Cuts
Dubbed the “DOGE rescission package”, the legislation proposes:
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Cutting $8.3 billion from international assistance programs, including USAID, PEPFAR (global HIV/AIDS relief), and disaster response funds.
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Rolling back $1.1 billion in funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which supports NPR, PBS, and hundreds of local radio and television stations across the U.S.
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Supporters argue the bill will reduce “wasteful” spending abroad and rein in taxpayer costs for what they label as “left-leaning media.”
đź—ł Tight Vote & Political Maneuvering
Republican leaders pushed the bill through with support from former President Donald Trump, who praised the cuts as “long overdue.” Two GOP holdouts—Reps. Don Bacon (Nebraska) and Nick LaLota (New York)—switched to “yes” after last-minute negotiations. Meanwhile, four Republicans broke ranks to oppose the bill, joining all Democrats in voting “no.”
Democrats warned that the cuts would damage America’s global leadership, undermine health and education programs, and cripple public broadcasting—especially in rural and underserved communities.
“These cuts may satisfy a political agenda, but they risk real harm to public services and humanitarian efforts,” said House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
🔎 What’s Next: Senate Showdown
The bill now heads to the Senate, where its fate is uncertain. Although Republicans hold a narrow majority, several GOP senators—most notably Susan Collins (Maine) and Lisa Murkowski (Alaska)—have expressed concern over defunding rural media and global health programs like PEPFAR.
If not passed by July 18, the bill will expire. Senate Majority Leader John Thune has suggested revisions are likely, signaling potential bipartisan amendments.
đź’¬ National Reaction
Media advocates have criticized the proposed public broadcasting cuts, warning that local PBS and NPR affiliates—especially in smaller markets—could face closure. Health officials also fear that rolling back foreign aid could destabilize key regions and hurt U.S. influence abroad.
Meanwhile, Trump-aligned Republicans see the vote as a major win, claiming it marks a return to “America First” budget priorities and puts control back in the hands of voters.
