House Passes $1.2 Trillion Spending Package, Senate Vote Expected Soon

House appropriators breathed a sigh of relief on Friday as the House narrowly passed a massive $1.2 trillion spending package. The 1,012-page bill, which covers appropriations for various agencies, required a two-thirds majority to pass under suspension of the rules.

The bill passed by a vote of 286-134, with 101 Republicans and all but 22 Democrats backing the measure. However, the vote tally was lower than a previous six-bill package, with Speaker Mike Johnson facing opposition from within his own GOP conference.

Opposition to the bill came from House conservatives unhappy with spending levels, the inclusion of Senate Democratic earmarks benefiting the LGBTQ community, and the lack of further restrictions on migrant border crossings and abortion rights.

Republican Rep. Chip Roy led the opposition, stating that voting for the package would go against campaign promises. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene also criticized the bill, hinting at a potential challenge to Speaker Johnson.

Despite some Democratic opposition to the bill, House Democratic leaders supported the measure, emphasizing its benefits for Americans and global leadership.

The bill now heads to the Senate, where it is expected to pass with President Joe Biden’s support. Both chambers aim to finalize the lengthy appropriations process before their upcoming recess.

Republicans praised the bill for its provisions on national security and border protection, while Democrats highlighted its support for women’s rights and global aid efforts.

House Freedom Caucus members and other conservatives criticized the bill for its spending levels and inclusion of Democratic earmarks. Progressives raised concerns about the continued block on funding for the U.N. Palestinian relief agency and increased funding for immigration enforcement.

Overall, the bill represents a compromise in divided government and aims to avoid a shutdown while moving forward with the fiscal 2025 budget cycle.