The Republican-led Senate narrowly passed President Trump’s rescission package late Wednesday night, voting 51–48 to slash nearly $9 billion in federal spending.
Among the biggest cuts:
-
Total defunding of PBS and NPR
-
Over $8 billion slashed from foreign aid
-
Cuts to programs funding food, shelter, and “democracy promotion” in foreign countries
Two Republicans—Susan Collins (ME) and Lisa Murkowski (AK)—voted with Democrats in a failed attempt to stop the bill.
Sen. Tina Smith (D-MN) was absent, citing a precautionary hospital stay, which helped give Republicans the edge.
Vice President JD Vance wasn’t needed to break the tie, although he previously cast critical tiebreaker votes during committee proceedings.
“Important Step Toward Fiscal Sanity”
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) praised the passage as a long-overdue step in restoring discipline to Washington.
“It’s a small but important step toward fiscal sanity that we all should be able to agree is long overdue,” Thune said.
The bill will now return to the House for final approval. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is expected to fast-track the vote.
President Trump is preparing to sign the bill into law by Friday, securing another massive policy win.
Key Details of What’s Being Cut
Public Broadcasting
Foreign Aid Slashed
-
$800M: Migrant housing, sanitation, and reunification
-
$496M: Disaster food/water/health supplies
-
$4.15B: “Democracy promotion” and economic aid to developing nations
McConnell Caves
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY), who initially tried to block the bill Tuesday, voted for final passage after pressure from within the GOP.
“The Trump White House wanted a blank check,” McConnell complained—before ultimately voting yes.
