In a move that underscores growing ideological divisions in Washington, the U.S. House of Representatives has approved a $9 billion budget rescissions package—a measure championed by former President Donald Trump and backed by a majority of House Republicans. The legislation proposes slashing over $1.1 billion in funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), alongside nearly $8 billion in cuts to various foreign aid and democracy-building programs.
Supporters of the bill argue that the move represents a long-overdue step toward fiscal discipline and a reduction in what they see as “non-essential government spending.” “We are reclaiming taxpayer money that was idly sitting in accounts funding liberal agendas, biased media, and unnecessary globalist programs,” said Rep. Mark Reynolds (R-TX), one of the architects of the bill. “America First is not just a slogan—it’s a fiscal policy.”
However, the proposed cuts have sparked fierce backlash from Democrats, independent media watchdogs, and international aid organizations. Critics argue that the cuts threaten the independence of public media, weaken America’s global diplomatic influence, and undermine democratic movements worldwide.
“Public broadcasting is one of the few remaining platforms offering unbiased educational content to all Americans, particularly in underserved rural communities,” said Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD). “Slashing its funding is a direct attack on free speech and journalistic integrity.”
The cuts to foreign aid have also drawn criticism from global humanitarian organizations who warn that essential health and education programs in developing countries will suffer, potentially destabilizing regions and increasing long-term security risks for the U.S.
Despite the controversy, the bill now advances to the Senate, where its fate remains uncertain. A number of moderate Republicans and nearly all Democrats are expected to oppose the measure. If passed, this would mark the largest federal budget rescission since the 1990s and a significant victory for fiscal conservatives aligned with Trump’s policy vision.
