While Republicans seek major spending cuts, 11 freshman GOP senators are making clear that continued aid to Israel represents a major priority. They sent a letter Wednesday to Minority Leader Mitch McConnell reiterating their support for the more than $3 billion in security assistance that the United States provides for Israel each year,
Politico reports.
Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, led the letter-writing effort.
“As we work to reduce wasteful government spending, we recognize that providing for the national defense is a constitutional responsibility of the federal government,” the note reads.
“Therefore, we must continue to prioritize the safety of our nation and the security of our allies, including Israel,” the note continues.
The senators split with fellow GOP freshman Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky, who proposes eliminating all foreign aid in the budget.