The U.S. Senate has passed a $9 billion spending rollback, targeting international aid programs and public broadcasting networks like PBS and NPR. Approved by a 51–48 vote on Wednesday, the bill reclaims previously allocated funds as part of a push for fiscal tightening. Most of the cuts—roughly $8 billion—come from global health and development initiatives, while over $1 billion will be pulled from domestic public media funding.
Vice President J.D. Vance played a decisive role in advancing the bill, casting tie-breaking votes under the budget rescission process, which allows Congress to cancel previously approved funding with a simple majority. While some lawmakers tried to protect programs like the HIV/AIDS-focused PEPFAR and public broadcasting, only limited changes were accepted. Supporters argue the measure reins in excessive spending, while critics warn it could harm vulnerable communities at home and abroad. The bill now moves to the House, where lawmakers must act quickly before the funds are released later this week.
