The Trump administration is sending Congress a $9 billion rescission proposal targeting USAID, PBS, and NPR. It’s a major test for lawmakers who claim they want to cut waste.
Key Facts:
- The rescission package proposes more than $9 billion in cuts to existing federal spending.
- Targets include USAID, the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (which funds PBS and NPR), and smaller agencies like the U.S. Institute of Peace.
- Elon Musk is leading the Department of Government Efficiency behind the plan.
- Congress has 45 days to act once the proposal is submitted on April 28, after which funds must be released if no action is taken.
- The Senate can pass the package with a simple 50-vote majority under the Impoundment Control Act.
Rescission Package to Cut USAID, NPR Funding
The White House is preparing to send a $9 billion rescission package to Congress aimed at slashing foreign aid and public broadcasting.
The cuts would include the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), PBS, NPR, and other agencies deemed inconsistent with President Trump’s agenda.
The Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk, compiled the list of recommended cuts.
These include the closure of agencies like the U.S. Institute of Peace and the end of federal funds to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
Critics of PBS and NPR have long argued the organizations promote liberal bias on the taxpayer’s dime, even though federal money comprises a small portion of their total revenue.
If Congress does nothing within 45 days after receiving the proposal on April 28, the withheld funds must be released.
However, with only 50 votes needed in the Senate, the rescission package could still be approved with a simple majority.
Scoop: The White House has started to notify key members of Congress of its 'rescissions' plan
Major provisions include eliminating 'all' $1.1 billion in pending funds for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and axing $8.3 billion from USAIDhttps://t.co/E6dMSe302j
— Steven Nelson (@stevennelson10) April 14, 2025
Congress Faces Real Test on Government Waste and DOGE Pledge
Lawmakers who claim to support lower spending and smaller government are now under the spotlight.
The rescission package isn’t just a symbolic move — it’s a concrete test of whether Congress is serious about trimming the budget and backing the DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) initiative.
Conservatives who supported the recent $5.3 trillion tax package were promised cuts would follow.
The rescission bill is part of that promise.
Now, those same lawmakers must follow through — or expose their support as hollow.
Senator Ron Johnson and others only backed the budget with the understanding that these cuts would become law.
The inclusion of USAID and foreign aid will resonate with Americans who believe too much money is spent abroad while domestic needs go unmet.
Likewise, defunding PBS and NPR is long overdue for voters tired of subsidizing media outlets that don’t represent their values.
Yet, the path forward isn’t guaranteed.
Even with a 50-vote threshold, some lawmakers may balk under pressure from interest groups, media allies, or political fallout.
If Congress fails to pass this, it signals a clear message: the talk about cutting waste was never serious.
It also raises broader questions about the balance of power.
Trump argues the Impoundment Control Act is unconstitutional because it limits a president’s ability to reject spending.
If courts agree, it could change how presidents influence spending for years to come.
The Bottom Line: Spending Cuts or Status Quo?
The rescission package is more than a budget maneuver — it’s a defining moment for Congress.
Will lawmakers take a stand against bloated spending or fold under pressure?
If they fail, voters may start asking whether anyone in Washington truly cares about fiscal responsibility, national priorities, or putting America first.
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