The Vote Count

A stand-off in the House

A bill proposing $17.6 billion in aid to Israel has been blocked in the House of Representatives, lacking the two-thirds majority necessary to advance. Among the opposition were 166 Democrats and 14 Republicans.

Why It Matters

Challenges to US-Israel relations

The failure of the bill represents significant internal US political challenges and divergent approaches to funding foreign allies like Israel. The initial aid package was part of a larger $118 billion supplemental security proposal, which the White House prefers as a comprehensive approach.

House Republicans Push for Passage

Actions by Speaker Mike Johnson

Republican Speaker Mike Johnson criticized the exclusion of the House in the conjoined discussions of security funding and border policy. Fast tracking the vote directly to the floor, Johnson aimed to secure the bill’s urgent passage.

Political Divide and Consequences

Opposing Points of View

While some Republicans like Rep. Michelle Steel expressed disappointment with the failure to rally support for Israel, conservative colleagues emphasized fiscal responsibility and avoidance of further national debt without spending reductions elsewhere.

White House and Democratic Response

Biden administration’s stance

The White House criticized the bill as a “cynical political maneuver,” underscoring President Biden’s veto threat and advocating for broader negotiations on security funding that includes border policy. Meanwhile, Democratic leaders provided support to party members challenging the bill, seeking a holistic and good faith effort towards US-Israel alliance efforts.

Looking Ahead

Finding a Bipartisan Path

Though the standalone bill himself swayed not enough lawmakers this passing, Speaker Johnson suggests possible redeployment through the regular legislative process, fostering an opening for further debate and potential for revisions in line with broader bipartisan expectations.

This story was first published on foxnews.com.