The White House is preparing to send Congress a rescission package next week, aimed at cutting $9.4 billion in federal spending. The proposal targets programs like the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (which funds NPR and PBS) and USAID. These cuts come from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, which has faced criticism for delays. Originally expected in April, the package was postponed as the House prioritized the “One Big Beautiful Bill” focused on tax cuts, defense, and border spending.
Speaker Mike Johnson’s Support for DOGE and Promise of Quick Action
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has promised swift action once the package arrives, emphasizing the need to eliminate government waste. He praised DOGE’s findings, including outdated Social Security payments to 12 million individuals over age 120, and criticized USAID for inefficiency. Johnson assured the House would work quickly to enshrine these cuts into law, aligning with President Trump’s goal to reduce the size of government.
Elon Musk and Right-Wing Activists Demand Stronger Action
Elon Musk, a leading advocate of DOGE, has voiced frustration over the GOP’s lack of urgency, criticizing the “Big Beautiful Bill” for undercutting DOGE’s mission. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) echoed his concerns, pushing for broader cuts to tackle national debt and eliminate waste. Their stance reflects growing impatience among right-wing activists calling for deeper government rollbacks.
Democrats Raise Concerns About Transparency
Democrats have pushed back, citing a lack of transparency in the proposed cuts. They argue the administration hasn’t clearly explained how programs will be affected. The delay since April has only heightened demands for clarity and accountability regarding the rescission package’s impact.
Growing Fiscal Pressure on Congress
As the package heads to Congress, DOGE and the White House continue pressing for more cuts. Johnson is determined to act swiftly, but the proposal may hit resistance in the Senate, particularly from Democrats wary of its fiscal impact. Republicans hold narrow control of the House (by 3 seats) and a 53–47 Senate majority, giving them a governing edge but requiring party unity to codify DOGE cuts and new administration changes
