Democrats show hesitancy towards passing a separate aid bill for Israel and raise concerns about the situation in Ukraine
House Democrats Hold Firm on Prioritizing Ukraine Aid Over Stand-Alone Israel Bill
House Democrats are pumping the brakes on any path forward for an Israel stand-alone aid bill, an idea floated by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) last week in response to comments from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and instead are calling on Republicans to take Ukraine aid seriously.
Challenges and Priorities
After Schumer called for new elections in the Jewish state, Johnson said he is considering bringing another clean, stand-alone bill to the House floor despite a failure to pass one in February. Considering he would likely bring the bill up under suspension, it would require a two-thirds majority and all but assures that the measure would require Democratic support.
However, some members of the Democratic conference are adamant that if Republicans want to see Democratic caucus support for Israel funding, they’ll need to see movement on Ukraine aid first, which they believe is “more urgent” considering the House enters a two-week recess beginning next week.
Jim McGovern, the Rules Committee ranking member, emphasized the critical timeline for Ukraine aid, stating, “On Ukraine, time isn’t only running out, time has run out… So, the fact that we’re going home for two weeks and not doing anything on Ukraine really is unconscionable.”
Determined to push the Senate’s supplemental bill to the floor, Democrats face opposition from House GOP leaders who have dismissed the bill due to its lack of border security provisions.
Unity and Divide
While Democrats rally behind the urgent need for Ukraine aid, divisions arise over support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas, especially concerning the impact on Palestinian citizens and backing for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Amidst debates, House Republicans plan to invite Netanyahu to speak before Congress, reflecting their emphasis on aiding Israel during this challenging period.
Call for Action
Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar highlights the necessity of prioritizing legislation like the Senate’s to provide humanitarian aid to allies in Israel and Ukraine.
“That should be the priority of the House… He hasn’t said the Republican conference should work its will… He should bring the bill on the floor,” Aguilar asserts, calling on Speaker Johnson to advance critical national security measures.
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