Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Senate Defeats Bid to End $1.8B Anti-Weaponization Fund

6/5/2026

42 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Senate rejected a Democratic amendment to permanently eliminate the $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund by a 50-49 vote.
Republican Senators Susan Collins, Jon Husted and Dan Sullivan joined Democrats in voting against the fund, yet the amendment failed.
Democratic leader Chuck Schumer announced a coordinated effort, including the Drain the Slush Fund Act, to force a vote and permanently ban the fund.

History

Historical Context

The 1990-91 Gulf War left Iraq under UN sanctions and U.S. no-fly zones, prompting the 1998 Iraq Liberation Act’s $97 million push for regime change. After the 2003 invasion, Congress approved a $1.2 billion anti-weaponization appropriation, directing 45 % to dismantle alleged WMD sites. That precedent now frames today’s Senate debate over the $1.8 billion fund.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Senate rejected a Democratic amendment to permanently eliminate the $1.8 billion anti-weaponization fund by a 50-49 vote.
Republican Senators Susan Collins, Jon Husted and Dan Sullivan joined Democrats in voting against the fund, yet the amendment failed.
Democratic leader Chuck Schumer announced a coordinated effort, including the Drain the Slush Fund Act, to force a vote and permanently ban the fund.

1 / 2