Senate GOP Powers Through on Trump's $9B Clawback Bill Amid Fierce Debate

In a dramatic late-night push, Senate Republicans rallied behind President Donald Trump’s ambitious $9 billion spending clawback package, clearing yet another procedural obstacle with Vice President JD Vance’s crucial support. This sets the stage for a grueling 10-hour debate where sparks are sure to fly.

Democrats in the Senate are gearing up to drag out the clock while fiercely criticizing the bill for slashing funds to foreign aid and public broadcasting. It’s clear they’re not just playing defense—they’re looking to dismantle the package entirely. Meanwhile, the GOP stands mostly united, though cracks appeared with Sens. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) breaking ranks to vote against it.

Post-debate, we’re in for a vote-a-rama, where amendments can be thrown into the ring endlessly. Democrats may seize the chance to derail the bill, while Republicans are poised to protect roughly $400 million in international HIV and AIDS funding—specifically tied to the Bush-era PEPFAR program—a compromise already greenlit by the White House. This carveout, though, has some Senate Republicans uneasy, and it’s a tough sell to the House, where Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and the fiscal hawks of the Freedom Caucus are digging in their heels against any tweaks.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) remains cautiously optimistic, hoping the House will accept this ‘small modification’ before the looming Friday deadline. But with dissent brewing on both sides of the Capitol, this bill’s journey is far from over. Stay tuned—this is shaping up to be a classic Washington showdown.