Thursday, October 1, 2026

Schumer Checkmated on Plan to Block Trump Spending Cuts

 This week, President Donald Trump used a rare presidential power called the pocket rescission to cut $810 million in federal spending, surprising many senators who were unaware such a move was possible.

Trump's action left senators shocked, with some expressing disbelief about reducing government spending.

Senator Ron Johnson from Wisconsin played a key role in supporting Trump’s decision. He blocked an attempt by Democratic senators to restore the funding and prevent future rescissions.

Johnson expressed his desire for even larger cuts, stating the canceled money was unnecessary and should not be spent.

A proposed bill by Senators Jeff Merkley and Patty Murray aimed to nullify Trump’s cuts and safeguard against similar future actions. However, it was unlikely to pass before the funds expired.

The funding cuts primarily impacted programs like refugee assistance and migrant education, which Trump’s administration deemed unnecessary due to lower illegal immigration rates.

The situation highlights tensions within Congress, as some senators express discontent over the lost funding, which they consider vital, while others support Trump's efforts to curb government spending.

Trump's cancellation of funding using the pocket rescission has created significant political reactions, illustrating the deep divides in Washington regarding government spending and priorities. As the fiscal year closes, the cuts remain intact, reflecting Trump’s ongoing challenge to established spending norms. 

https://redstate.com/kyle-becker/2026/09/30/senator-johnson-checkmates-schumers-plan-to-block-trump-spending-cuts-n2207601

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