Bowling Green Today

U.S. Senator Rand Paul took a firm stance against the foreign aid spending bill during a talking filibuster on the Senate floor. In his remarks, Dr. Paul emphasized the importance of prioritizing American interests over foreign aid, particularly in the context of the ongoing debate on Ukraine.

Regarding the bill, Senator Paul criticized it as being detrimental to American taxpayers, stating, “This bill gives the finger to American taxpayers. This bill gives the finger to all of America. This bill is Ukraine first, America last.” He stressed the need for an "American first legislature" that addresses domestic issues before allocating funds overseas.

While expressing his support for Ukraine, Senator Paul underscored his primary allegiance to the United States, stating, “If we are to send $100 billion overseas, it will be a total of $170 billion. Never, ever in the history of the United States have we ever sent so much money to one country, $170 billion.” He highlighted the financial implications of such a significant allocation, noting the absence of surplus funds or reserves to cover the expenditure.

Senator Paul also addressed the perception that the public cannot comprehend the complexities of the bill, asserting, “I think every one of my acquaintances and friends and people I run into Kentucky have every much as ability, if not more ability, than the people in this room to make a decision on this.” He emphasized the desire of his constituents to prioritize defending America's borders and sovereignty over foreign aid initiatives.

In conclusion, Senator Paul predicted ongoing opposition to the bill, stating, “I predict that the vast majority of the Republicans in the House of Representatives are more conservative than the Republicans in this body, and I predict that this fight is not over.” He reaffirmed his position against the bill, citing concerns that it places the interests of Ukraine above those of the United States.

As the debate on the foreign aid spending bill continues, Senator Paul's unwavering stance against the legislation reflects a broader discussion on the prioritization of national interests in foreign policy decisions.