Senate Budget: Bipartisan Approvals and Earmarks Reintroduced

This chapter covers the Senate's approval of a $1.5 trillion spending package designed to keep the federal government running while addressing both domestic and international needs, particularly funding for Ukraine. It discusses the reintroduction of earmarks, their historical significance, and the political implications of their removal, which have fostered polarization among lawmakers. Additionally, the chapter contrasts the bipartisan support for Ukraine with the contentious debate over COVID funding, highlighting the evolving priorities and challenges within Congress.