The U.S. Senate narrowly approved a $70 billion immigration enforcement package early Friday, advancing a key Republican-backed measure focused on border security and immigration enforcement.
The legislation passed in a 52-47 vote after senators rejected an amendment aimed at addressing the administration’s controversial “anti-weaponization” fund.
Vote Breakdown
Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska was the only member of her party to vote against the bill, joining all Senate Democrats in opposition. The rest of the Republican conference supported the measure, providing enough votes for passage.
The vote followed a lengthy overnight “vote-a-rama” session in which senators considered numerous amendments before final approval.
Amendment Rejected
A proposed amendment intended to place restrictions on the anti-weaponization fund failed to gain Senate approval, leaving the bill unchanged before final passage.
Supporters of the legislation argued it would strengthen immigration enforcement efforts, while opponents raised concerns about the measure’s scope and funding priorities.
Next Steps
The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration. House lawmakers are not expected to take up the legislation until next week.
If approved by the House, the measure would represent one of the largest immigration enforcement funding packages considered by Congress in recent years.
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