SC Alaska News

U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska expressed her opposition to the recent rescissions package passed late Wednesday. In a statement, Murkowski outlined three primary reasons for her vote against the measure.

Murkowski highlighted a lack of clarity on how specific accounts targeted for rescission would be affected. She noted that there was insufficient explanation and transparency from both the administration and others involved in the process regarding which programs and priorities might face cuts.

The senator also raised concerns about global health programs, pointing out that while some changes were made to protect these programs, details remained unclear. "There is no way to determine the implications for lifesaving care and vital resources for women and children abroad," she stated.

Additionally, Murkowski opposed the rescission of funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. She argued that targeting NPR could harm local radio stations essential for providing news, alerts, and educational programming, especially in Alaska. Despite advancing an amendment to protect this funding, it did not pass.

Murkowski further emphasized that approving the package as it stands shifts federal budget power towards the executive branch, contrary to Congress's constitutional role in budget control. "Congress, not OMB, holds the power of the purse under the Constitution," she asserted.

Despite discussions during floor debates and a vote-a-rama session failing to address her concerns, Murkowski maintained her position against what she described as a "mystery box" of a rescissions package.

Senator Murkowski had previously spoken on the Senate Floor expressing her objections ahead of Tuesday evening's procedural vote.