NEW: Republicans Fail Trump, Pass Spending Package Funding Far-Left Media

Republicans approved a spending package that includes $643 million for the U.S. Agency for Global Media, sidestepping a showdown over an agency President Donald Trump previously tried to shut down to keep the broader bill on track.

The decision highlighted the GOP’s balancing act as it tries to advance party priorities while holding together a conference with razor-thin margins in the House.

The funding backs radio, internet, television, and broadcasting grants in the Middle East. It cleared both chambers this week as part of the National Security, Department of State and Related Programs Act.

Rep. Mark Alford, R-Mo., who helped craft the bill, said the final figure followed discussions with Kari Lake, a senior adviser to the agency who has close ties to Trump.

“She seemed to me like we’re on the same team on this,” Alford said. “I continue to communicate with her often and look forward to working with her as she tries to right this program and get it back to its original intent.”

Early in his second term, Trump signed an executive order aimed at shuttering USAGM, the parent of Voice of America, arguing the outlet leaned against Republican principles and failed to serve U.S. interests. Courts later ruled the administration lacked authority to cut congressionally approved funding, allowing the agency to continue operating.

Kari Lake speaks with attendees at the 2022 AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona.

Even so, Alford said Republicans moved closer to Trump’s goals by trimming the agency’s budget in the new bill.

“I think the cuts that we’re making, which is a 25% reduction, is a significant step forward to meeting what Kari Lake wants as well. I’m hoping that we can do even more in the 2027 appropriations bill,” Alford said.

Rep. Clay Higgins, R-La., supported advancing the legislation but said he would rather see the funding eliminated altogether.

“I would prefer that the federal government funds zero,” Higgins said shortly before Wednesday’s vote. “We support the president’s executive actions and his executive orders, and we endeavor to codify them. We just don’t have extra money to spend on things.”

“But I’m not going to let something like that stop me from supporting the larger measure,” he added.

Higgins, a member of the House Freedom Caucus, said Republicans have little room for error with a two-seat majority following the retirement of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., and the sudden death of Rep. Doug LaMalfa, R-Calif., earlier this month.

With more spending bills ahead, Republicans are expected to keep facing questions about how far they can push party priorities without triggering a shutdown.

“We don’t have the luxury of just casually opposing our own bills. It’s just so tight, man. So, our goal is to pass our legislation — especially when you’re faced with the alternative of a government shutdown,” Higgins said.

Republicans currently control the House by just two seats.

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