House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., and Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., defended the cuts to IRS funding in a bill passed by the GOP-led House that provides $14 billion in aid to Israel during its conflict with Hamas.
Last week, the House voted 226-196, mostly along party lines, to pass the Israel aid bill championed by Johnson. A dozen Democrats voted with Republicans for the measure, while two Republicans opposed it. However, Democrats have made it clear that the bill, which reduces IRS funding approved in President Joe Biden’s 2022 health, climate, and tax law, has no chance of surviving in the Senate. Biden has also threatened to veto it.
In an interview on Fox News Sunday, Johnson addressed the criticism from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and other congressional Democrats who pointed to a Congressional Budget Office report estimating that the legislation would increase the deficit by nearly $27 billion.
Johnson stated that Republicans are trying to be responsible with taxpayers’ resources and aim to offset spending instead of printing more money or borrowing to support international allies. He emphasized their commitment to paying for it, suggesting a change in how Washington works.
During the interview, Rep. Brendan Boyle, D-Pa., claimed that Johnson prioritizes “deficit-busting tax giveaways for the wealthy over helping Israel.” In response, Johnson reiterated their effort to address priorities in the proper order.
Scalise also defended the decision to cut IRS funding in the Republican-led Israel aid bill during an interview on ABC News’ This Week. He explained that the bill tackles two major concerns raised by the Defense Department: providing aid to Israel and addressing the national debt, which is considered the biggest threat according to military leaders.
Some Democrats who voted against the bill expressed support for aid to Israel but cited concerns about the IRS cuts. The funding intended to strengthen enforcement against tax evasion and generate more revenue.
Biden and Senate Democrats favor a comprehensive package that includes $106 billion in aid for Israel and Ukraine, humanitarian assistance for Gaza, and funding for U.S. border operations.
Schumer declared that the GOP’s Israel aid bill would be rejected by the Senate. He welcomed President Biden’s veto threat, describing the proposal as deeply flawed.
Source: NBCNews.com
