In an unprecedented move, Senate Leaders have joined together to pass legislation that includes a new short-term budget deal as well as a $6 billion aid package for Ukraine. This is a fairly remarkable development considering the months of inaction from both parties in the wake of the government shutdown.
The short-term deal would fund the government into November 21st while the Ukraine aid package includes $581 million for energy security, cybersecurity and corruption initiatives, demonstrating the strong support for Ukraine by Congress and the American people. This could mark a turning point in how Washington approaches foreign affairs moving forward.
The deal also finally ends the 35-day long record-breaking government shutdown, drastically reducing the amount of lost federal workers’ wages. This, coupled with the aid package for Ukraine, could potentially bring about a new era of progress and diplomacy in the US.
However, despite the Senate’s agreement, the deal is far from over. The House still has to agree on the package, as well as President Trump. With the proposed package funded largely with offsets, it will be interesting to see if the House decides to continue funding in this manner or if they will come up with another solution.
It has yet to be seen if the deal can be pushed forward in the House and approved by the President, but one thing is certain: this deal is a major step forward for both Congress and the Administration in attempting to bring the US back to an operating state.
This historic breakthrough between the two chambers of Congress is undoubtedly a sign of progress and has opened the door for increased collaboration between Senate and House leaders, setting the stage for further solutions that benefit the American people.