Biden Proposes $50 Billion for Domestic Crises amid International Aid Efforts

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
24/10/2023 20h35

In a move aimed at addressing urgent domestic needs, the Biden administration is preparing to propose approximately $50 billion in funding for various domestic priorities, according to sources familiar with the matter. This comes just days after President Biden unveiled a $100 billion request for international crises in Ukraine, Israel, and other priorities.

The proposed legislation will prioritize funding for crucial areas such as child care, high-speed internet access, natural disaster relief, and support for firefighters battling wildfires. The details of how much funding will be allocated to each program are yet to be finalized, and sources cautioned that the planning is still subject to change.

The announcement of this proposed domestic funding comes as President Biden focuses his attention on the ongoing conflict in Israel. It serves as a dual purpose for the administration, addressing pressing issues at home while demonstrating its commitment to improving the U.S. economy, an area of concern for many voters. However, given that the House of Representatives is currently under GOP control, it is unlikely that the legislation will pass, as hard-line members have been demanding substantial cuts to government services. Nonetheless, this proposal may help the administration respond to potential political vulnerabilities.

In addition to the proposed domestic funding, the White House also unveiled a separate aid package totaling approximately $106 billion. The aid package primarily focuses on funding for Ukraine and Israel, with additional provisions for aid at the U.S.-Mexico border and global humanitarian assistance. While the fate of this aid package in Congress remains unclear, it is considered to have a higher chance of garnering bipartisan support compared to the domestic funding proposal.

The White House Office of Management and Budget declined to comment on the matter. However, economists and allies of the administration have weighed in on the proposals, highlighting the significance of addressing both domestic and international needs.

Dean Baker, economist at the Center for Economic and Policy Research, a left-leaning think tank, expressed his support for the administration's efforts, noting that it makes sense for Biden to propose funding for domestic crises, particularly when faced with accusations that Democrats prioritize international issues over domestic concerns.

As President Biden's $50 billion domestic funding proposal takes shape, it is expected that Congress will be called upon to avert funding shortfalls in crucial government programs. Over 24 billion dollars in stimulus funds approved during the pandemic are set to expire, posing a risk of parents losing access to child care. Additionally, dwindling funds for the Affordable Connectivity Program may result in tens of millions of low-income households losing high-speed internet access.

While bipartisan support for aid to Israel exists in Congress, some Republicans have criticized Biden's $106 billion aid package for including funding for Ukraine. Former President Donald Trump accused Biden of offering a "blank check" to Ukraine and Russia. On the other hand, Senator Bernie Sanders has called for Congress to address urgent funding shortfalls in the United States alongside foreign aid.

In the coming weeks, the proposed legislation will continue to be refined, taking into account the changing dynamics and political landscape. It remains to be seen how much support the domestic funding proposal will receive, but it signifies the Biden administration's commitment to addressing both domestic and international challenges in a comprehensive manner.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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