Palmetto State News

U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham, the Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, announced today that the Senate has passed the Fiscal Year 2025 budget resolution with a vote of 52-48. The resolution serves as a framework for a reconciliation bill aimed at enhancing border security, strengthening military capabilities, and boosting American energy independence.

Senator Graham emphasized the significance of this development, stating: “This budget resolution is a complete game changer when it comes to securing our border and making our military more lethal. It will allow President Trump to fulfill the promises he made to the American people — a very big deal.”

The budget resolution permits up to $175 billion in spending by the Judiciary and Homeland Security Committees for President Trump's border security initiatives. Additionally, it allows for up to $150 billion in spending by the Armed Services Committee to enhance military lethality and allocates up to $20 billion for Coast Guard modernization.

Graham noted that while specific spending directives are not included in the resolution, it sets financial limits for various committees. He stated: “It does not direct how money will be spent — it only sets a number.”

Furthermore, other Senate committees are instructed to identify spending cuts to fully fund these priorities. Graham expressed his hope that the House would pass comprehensive legislation aligned with President Trump's goals, emphasizing urgency: “I hope the House can pass one big bill that meets President Trump’s priorities. But this approach provides money that we needed yesterday to continue the momentum on securing our border, enforcing our immigration laws, and rebuilding our military. Time is of the essence.”