The White House has sent a request to Congress for $4 billion to fund various projects, including the reconstruction of a collapsed bridge in Baltimore and improving border security with Mexico. In a letter to Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, Shalanda Young, the White House Budget Director, outlined the urgent needs and revised estimates for additional funding.
Young highlighted several key areas where funding is needed, such as repairing damages caused by fires in Hawaii and providing aid for hurricanes in the midwestern United States. In addition to these priorities, she urged Congress to support a bipartisan agreement on border security that includes policy changes, resources, and personnel to secure the borders and reform the immigration system.
The administration also emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges faced by the childcare sector and reducing the costs of child care for working families. Congress previously passed a $95 billion aid plan that included military and economic aid for Ukraine, but the White House accused Republicans of obstructing immigration reform.
Despite negotiations and efforts to strengthen border controls, Senate Republicans rejected a bill aimed at improving security at the southern border with Mexico. Senate leader Mitch McConnell criticized Democrats for putting the bill up for vote again before elections, calling it “a trap.” The administration continues to push for funding and support to address urgent national needs and strengthen border security.
