Columbia News

Senator Eric Schmitt, a member of the United States Senate representing Missouri, used his social media platform on July 16, 2025, to comment on the Senate’s upcoming vote regarding President Trump’s proposed rescissions package.

In a post at 18:03 UTC, Schmitt announced his intention to participate in the legislative process, stating: "I’m headed to the Senate floor to begin Vote-a-Rama on President Trump’s rescissions package. Today is the day American taxpayers stop paying for left-wing propaganda."

One hour later, Schmitt expanded on his concerns about government spending and immigration policy. He wrote: "Americans are being pushed out of jobs, swamped by Third World immigration, and then called 'racist' for complaining about it—all with their own hard-earned tax money. The entire left-wing system has been bankrolled by government cash. Today, we're voting to end that."

At 20:03 UTC, Schmitt cited specific examples of federal expenditures he finds objectionable: "Here’s how your tax dollars are being spent: $18M for gender diversity in the Mexican street lighting industry $3M for Iraqi Sesame Street $2.4M to make international disaster aid more considerate of gender identity This is insulting. Time to pass my rescissions bill."

A rescissions package allows the president to propose canceling previously approved budget authority for certain programs or activities. According to U.S. budget procedures, Congress must consider these proposals within a set timeframe and may accept or reject them through legislation. In recent years, such packages have often targeted programs considered unnecessary or wasteful by proponents but essential by others.

President Donald Trump has previously advocated for significant cuts in discretionary spending through similar rescission proposals during his administration.