Vice President J.D. Vance cast two tie-breaking votes this week to advance a $9.4 billion rescissions package in the Senate, moving forward legislation that includes deep cuts to public broadcasting and foreign aid. The Senate was split 50-50 on two procedural motions, requiring Vance’s intervention to begin formal debate. The bill, requested by the White House and already passed by the House, is part of a broader effort to reduce federal spending.

Among the most controversial elements is a $1.1 billion cut to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which supports NPR and PBS, and an $8.3 billion reduction in funding for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). These proposed cuts have drawn bipartisan concern. Republican Senators Mitch McConnell, Lisa Murkowski, and Susan Collins joined Democrats in opposing the measure during the procedural vote.

Sen. Collins criticized the lack of transparency in the package, saying the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) had not provided sufficient details about which programs would be impacted. “This isn’t just numbers on a spreadsheet,” she warned. “These cuts could have serious consequences,” particularly for global programs supporting education, clean water, and food security.

In response, Senate leaders signaled that $400 million in cuts to the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) could be restored. Senate Majority Leader John Thune said discussions are ongoing to adjust the bill, possibly reducing the total rescissions to around $9 billion while preserving key global health funds.

The Senate will now debate amendments before holding a final vote. If passed, the updated bill will return to the House for reconciliation.