Trump axes billions in foreign aid as Collins, Schumer slam ‘illegal pocket rescission’

Lawmakers from both political parties are criticizing the White House’s decision to cancel $4.9 billion in foreign aid funding, with many calling the move illegal. The cancellation, which was done through a “pocket rescission,” has raised concerns about the impact it could have on the upcoming deadline to fund the government.

The pocket rescissions package includes cuts to various foreign aid programs that the administration believes do not align with President Trump’s agenda. These cuts range from contributions to international organizations to development assistance, totaling over $4.9 billion.

While Congress has the authority to approve rescissions within a 45-day period, the White House’s use of a pocket rescission is seen as an attempt to bypass this process. Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins has condemned the move, calling it an “apparent attempt to rescind appropriated funds without congressional approval.” She also pointed out that the Government Accountability Office has deemed this type of pocket rescission illegal under the Impoundment Control Act.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has also voiced his opposition to the pocket rescissions, warning that further attempts to claw back funding approved by Congress would be unacceptable to Democrats. Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries have called for discussions with Republican leaders to address the looming September 30 deadline to fund the government.

As negotiations continue, both parties are grappling with the implications of the White House’s actions and how it could impact efforts to keep the government open. Schumer has accused President Trump and Congressional Republicans of prioritizing their own agenda over bipartisanship, which he believes could lead to a government shutdown and harm the American people.

In the midst of these developments, it remains to be seen how Congress will respond to the White House’s pocket rescissions and whether they will be able to reach a resolution before the funding deadline. The fate of billions in foreign aid hangs in the balance, as lawmakers navigate the complex political landscape in Washington.