Many Republicans in the House of Representatives pushed against aiding Ukraine. Specifically, 70 lawmakers attempted to end all military aid to Ukraine. With dissent in their party, the amendment died quickly by a crushing 358-70 margin.
Democrats, as well as most Republicans, rejected the measure. Rep. Matt Gaetz, the Florida Republican who proposed the amendment, recognized the slight chance of success. However, he saw the opportunity to put lawmakers on record.
Gaetz stated that the American public would get clarity on who aligns with their interests. He claimed some politicians prioritized representing Crimea over their constituents. The lawmakers voting for the amendment included notorious hard-right members like Reps—Lauren Boebert of Colorado and Chip Roy of Texas. Georgia’s Marjorie Taylor, now ousted from the hard-right caucus, supported the measure.
Some conservatives argue against the U.S. supporting Ukraine. They believe that lawmakers should address domestic issues. Former President Donald Trump also expressed the desire to limit U.S. involvement. Republicans have often opposed aid to Ukraine in previous votes.
House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, while generally supportive of aid to Ukraine, has attempted to compromise with skeptics in his party. Concurrently, Democrats have consistently backed the Biden administration’s approach to the war. However, the decision to send cluster munitions to Ukraine drew criticism from some progressive lawmakers. Despite this, the majority stands in support of assisting the war-stricken country.
