The U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday approved legislation to block President Donald Trump’s declaration of a national emergency to fund his proposed wall at the U.S.-Mexico border.
With the 245-182 vote, Democrats rebuffed the presidents’ plan to raise over $6 billion for the barrier by taking money from already-authorized military construction and other federal accounts. Thirteen Republicans joined with all House Democrats in favor of the bill.
The next step will be a Senate vote, which must occur within 18 days.
The Republicans hold a majority in the Senate, but three members of the GOP have announced their intent to support the bill. If one more Republican senator shifts, that would be a majority in favor and passage. However, President Trump could veto the bill, and a two-thirds majority – considered difficult, if not unlikely – is needed to override that veto.
Categories: The Wider World