Senate Republicans Block Democrats’ Proposal on Immigration Bill

Senate Republicans defeated a Democratic proposal aimed at preventing President Trump from establishing a fund to compensate his political allies. This vote marked the beginning of a lengthy series of votes related to the Republicans’ immigration crackdown bill, extending into early Friday.

The Republican effort focused on advancing a $70 billion bill to fund immigration enforcement for the rest of President Trump’s term. The bill is a top priority for the party, especially during an election year where their control of Congress is contested. However, recent opposition from within the Republican ranks has posed challenges. Some G.O.P. lawmakers have resisted Trump’s request for $1 billion for a ballroom project and a proposed $1.8 billion fund meant to pay those he claims were victimized by the government.

“This would have been done several hours ago if we weren’t having to deal with some of the issues around the fund,” Senator John Thune, Republican of South Dakota and majority leader, stated shortly before midnight at the Capitol.

Despite the dissent, most Republican senators appeared to set aside their concerns and unite in defeating Democrats’ attempts to limit President Trump’s authority on various issues. The initial vote, proposed by Senator Chuck Schumer, Democrat of New York and minority leader, sought to send the immigration bill back to committee and prohibit the creation of the fund. The motion was narrowly defeated in a 50 to 49 vote. Notably, three Republicans facing re-election — Senators Susan Collins of Maine, Jon Husted of Ohio, and Dan Sullivan of Alaska — aligned with Democrats in their support.

The vote and subsequent amendments demonstrate the legislative challenges and political dynamics at play as Republicans strive to advance their immigration policy under President Trump.