Biden Says He'd Veto House Foreign Aid Bill

On Monday evening, President Joe Biden announced that he would veto the House's standalone Israel aid bill if it made it to his desk.

Key Details: If Biden vetoes the bill, entitled the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, Rep. Jim Jordan (R-OH) believes the bill could have enough support to override a veto. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is planning a vote on the bill later this week.

Key Quote: “The Administration spent months working with a bipartisan group of Senators to reach a national security agreement that secures the border and provides support for the people of Ukraine and Israel, while also providing much-needed humanitarian assistance to civilians affected by conflicts around the world,” the White House wrote in a statement. “Instead of working in good faith to address the most pressing national security challenges, this bill is another cynical political maneuver.”

For Context: The White House's opposition to the bill comes as tensions rise surrounding the Senate funding bill, which couples aid for Israel with humanitarian aid for Gaza, security assistance for Ukraine, and spending and policy provisions to secure the southern border. The standalone bill differs from the $14.3 billion aid bill for Israel passed by the House in November, which also included spending cuts to the IRS.

How the Media Covered Iit: Sources across the spectrum noted how the fight around the Senate funding bill has impacted the White House's decision to oppose the standalone Israel aid bill.