Senate postpones vote on $70 billion budget package

The Senate postponed a vote on a roughly $70 billion budget package that would fund immigration and deportation operations through 2029. The package had been scheduled for action before a June 1 deadline.

Funding requests draw objections Senators raised concerns over two additional funding items. One request sought nearly $1.8 billion for an "anti-weaponization" compensation fund for individuals the administration believes were wrongly prosecuted. A second request asked for $1 billion to provide security for a new White House ballroom.

The compensation fund proposal emerged from settlement negotiations involving a lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service. Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche met with senators for several hours but left without a resolution.

" said Sen. Thom Tillis.

broader context In the House, Republican lawmakers joined Democrats in signaling support for a war powers resolution aimed at halting military action in Iran. House Speaker Mike Johnson postponed the vote. Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick introduced legislation with Democratic Rep.

Tom Suozzi to block taxpayer funding for the compensation fund. Republican Rep. Don Bacon said Congress should hold the executive branch accountable and noted that consultation works better than threats. The postponement leaves the budget package for consideration when Congress returns next month.