WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Work in the Senate continues as lawmakers try to hammer out a border security deal that also clears the way to give more money to Ukraine and Israel.
Some senators are optimistic they could get a deal agreed to by the end of this week.
“We are at the finish line,” said Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.)
It’s a deal that would also clear the way to get more money to Israel and Ukraine.
“I think this is the ideal time to do it,” said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.)
Last year, Republicans conditioned more assistance for Israel and Ukraine on getting the border secured.
For months, tens of thousands of migrants have poured over the border illegally, overwhelming border towns and flooding major cities.
“Now, this work is not easy. In fact, it’s one of the hardest things the Senate has undertaken, but also one of the most important,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.).
But some Republicans, including former president Donald Trump, oppose any deal Democrats buy into.
Some in the GOP are also against more money for Ukraine and complain the bi-partisan talks have been too secretive.
“What they have agreed on, put it out so let’s look at it. Are you worried about what people are going to say?” said Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.)
But despite the slow-going pace of negotiations senators on both sides say they believe a deal will come to pass.
“This is a unique opportunity where a divided government has given us an opportunity to get an outcome,” said McConnell.
It’s still not clear where Speaker of the House Mike Johnson will come down on the Senate deal, as former President Trump has said publicly Johnson should not agree to any deal Democrats are a part of.
