Biden Set to Request $100 Billion for Israel, Ukraine, Taiwan, and US Border Funding

President Joe Biden is set to address Congress and ask for billions of dollars in funding for Israel, Ukraine, Taiwan, and US border security. The majority of the $100bn request is expected to be allocated to military aid for Israel and Ukraine. However, the House of Representatives currently lacks a Speaker, making it difficult to pass spending measures. President Biden's speech follows his recent trip to Israel and will be only his second address to the nation from the Oval Office. Congressional aides predict that $10bn will go to Israel, at least $60bn to Ukraine, with the rest divided between Taiwan and enhancing security at the southern border. Republican lawmakers have delayed funding efforts for Ukraine due to political reasons, but Democrats hope to gain bipartisan support by linking Ukraine aid to Republican priorities such as US border security. The aim is to build a coalition that will cooperate on the proposed aid package. However, Congress remains at a standstill as Republicans have failed to elect a new Speaker, halting any legislation, including spending requests. The current nominee for Speaker, Congressman Jim Jordan, is known for his opposition to further Ukraine aid. Supporters of President Biden's funding request believe that interim Speaker Patrick McHenry, who negotiated last month's government funding deal with Democrats, may provide a better chance for approval. Israel has requested specific capabilities such as precision-guided munitions and arms to replenish its Iron Dome air defense system. The anticipated request is expected to be received positively by Republican senators, especially if it includes border security funding. Nevertheless, there is Republican opposition to the request, with some Republicans arguing that Israel and other funding issues should be separated. Republican leader Mitch McConnell has shown willingness to consider the measure and highlighted the importance of providing military aid to American allies facing threats from Hamas, Russia, and China. Congress is expected to take about a week or two to review the request before voting, with the hope of concluding the process before Thanksgiving at the end of November. However, the approval of funding may depend on the resolution of the House's leadership issues, as it holds control over America's financial matters.