Story perspectives

Trump's Spending Cuts Rejected; Congress Approves $1.6 Trillion Budget

2/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump proposed cuts to federal spending after returning to office, aiming to reduce core government functions.
Congress largely rejected the proposals and kept funding for essential programs, including education, health, and research.
A preliminary analysis shows Congress will approve over $1.6 trillion in discretionary spending for 2026, little changed from 2025.
Trump reduced the federal workforce, while many lawmakers view remaining funding as vital for their communities.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump proposed cuts to federal spending after returning to office, aiming to reduce core government functions.
Congress largely rejected the proposals and kept funding for essential programs, including education, health, and research.
A preliminary analysis shows Congress will approve over $1.6 trillion in discretionary spending for 2026, little changed from 2025.
Trump reduced the federal workforce, while many lawmakers view remaining funding as vital for their communities.