Donald Trump Jr., the eldest son of former President Trump, is spearheading a backlash against the 22 Senate Republicans who voted in favor of advancing a $60 billion aid package for Ukraine, despite Trump’s opposition. The Senate voted 89-10 to proceed with the measure, setting up a final passage vote this week.
The Hill reported on Sunday, February 18, 2024, that Trump, in a statement on Friday, urged Republicans to block the bill, calling it a “gift” to President Biden and a “disaster” for America. However, the bill has bipartisan support and includes $60 billion in military and economic assistance for Ukraine, $14 billion for Israel, and funds for the Indo-Pacific region and humanitarian purposes.
Among the Republicans who voted for the aid package were Trump’s allies, including Sens. Lindsey Graham, Ted Cruz, and Marco Rubio. This move has triggered criticism and threats from Trump and his loyalists against these senators, accusing them of betraying the former president and his base.
Donald Trump Jr. took to social media to express his discontent, singling out the senators by name and vowing to support primary challengers against them. He referred to the senators as “RINOs” (Republicans in name only) and criticized them for supporting aid to Ukraine instead of addressing domestic issues.
In a tweet, Trump Jr. stated, “22 RINOs voted to give Biden $60 billion to help Ukraine fight Russia. That’s $60 billion that could have been spent on the American people or our border. These senators need to be primaried ASAP.” He also directed harsher remarks at specific senators, accusing Sen. Joni Ernst of being influenced by the military-industrial complex and suggesting Sen. Shelley Moore Capito should run for governor instead of senator.
The aid package, negotiated by Sens. Bob Menendez and Jim Risch, includes provisions to counter Russia’s threat to Ukraine, support U.S. allies, and address humanitarian needs. Supporters argue that the bill is fully paid for by rescinding unused funds from previous COVID-19 relief packages. The clash highlights divisions within the Republican Party over foreign policy and loyalty to the former president.
