BOISE, Idaho — U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) commented on the national security supplemental funding package that passed with a 70:29 vote in the United States Senate Tuesday morning.
The Senate passed a $95.3 billion aid package that will allocate funds to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, pushing ahead after months of negotiations and political divisions between the Republican and Democrat parties, primarily surrounding the United States' involvement in foreign affairs.
"The United States cannot be the policeman of the world, nor can we engage in every conflict, which is why we must support allies who will stand with us in what is a very dangerous time globally. Although this legislation is not what we would have drafted, it is a strong bill that makes Idaho and America safer – our first responsibility," the senators' statement read.
The vote came after a small group of Republicans opposed the $60 billion intended for Ukraine, arguing that the U.S. should focus on domestic problems before sending more money abroad. However, supporters of the package argued that abandoning Ukraine could embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin and threaten national security.
22 Republicans voted in favor with the final vote being 70-29.
"Our first and primary responsibility as senators is the safety and security of Idaho and the United States of America. This is done through a strong and ready national defense and by having capable and equipped allies.
"It is critically important we help defend Israel, prohibit funding for the antisemitic UN Relief and Works Agency, stop the advancement of China, and halt Russia from once again expanding its adversarial empire. This package re-energizes some of our military manufacturing capabilities which have fallen woefully behind and replenishes American weapon systems which have become dangerously low due to conflicts around the world."
Next, the bill will go to the House, where many Republicans maintain their opposition to furthering aid to Ukraine.
"Further, it makes important investments in America's energy independence through nuclear research and provides tools to interrupt the illicit global drug trade, like hampering the profits made by selling fentanyl, which will save lives in Idaho and across the country."
Watch more Idaho politics:
See all of our latest political coverage in our YouTube playlist:
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET NEWS FROM KTVB:
Download the KTVB News Mobile App
Apple iOS: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Watch news reports for FREE on YouTube: KTVB YouTube channel
Stream Live for FREE on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching 'KTVB'.
Stream Live for FREE on FIRE TV: Search ‘KTVB’ and click ‘Get’ to download.