Thune Pushes $9.4 B Rescissions Plan Toward Crucial Senate Vote

Senate Republican Leader John Thune said the chamber will hold a procedural vote later today on President Donald Trump’s $9.4 billion rescissions package, even as party leaders acknowledge they are still searching for the 51 votes needed to begin debate. Thune is negotiating possible amendments, including a potential manager’s package, to win over holdouts. Senator Susan Collins has yet to receive clarification from the Office of Management and Budget on how the proposed foreign-aid cuts would be implemented, underscoring lingering concerns within the caucus. Despite the unresolved issues, Thune signaled growing optimism after GOP leaders reportedly secured at least one key commitment this afternoon, putting the measure "on track" for advancement. Talks with the White House and rank-and-file Republicans are continuing ahead of the vote.