Republicans expected to abandon $1B proposal for Trump's ballroom
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- Senate Republican leaders are expected to drop a $1 billion security funding proposal for the White House complex and Trump’s ballroom due to opposition from GOP members concerned about timing, cost, and use of taxpayer money.
- The security funding was part of a $70 billion bill aimed at restoring funding for ICE and Border Patrol, but disagreements over the proposal and a $1.776 billion Trump-related settlement fund have delayed the bill’s progress.
- The settlement fund, intended to compensate Trump allies who claim political persecution, has faced criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans, prompting discussions about imposing restrictions on its use.
- Democrats are preparing amendments to block or restrict the settlement fund and have criticized Republicans for prioritizing Trump-related spending amid broader affordability concerns.
- Tensions are rising between Trump and Senate Republicans, with Trump criticizing the Senate parliamentarian and urging changes to Senate rules, while GOP senators express frustration over his recent political endorsements and demands.