Quigley Statement on GOP Conditioning Aid to Israel

Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05), released the following statement after voting against a stand-alone Israel aid package that would cut $14.3 billion in funding for the Internal Revenue Service. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates this bill would add $12.5 billion to the deficit through 2033 and would result in $26.8 billion in lost tax revenue.

“During all my years in Congress, support for Israel has never been a partisan issue. Until extremists took the gavel.

“Israel just endured the worst attack on Jewish life since the Holocaust. This is the time for unity; for Congress to reassure our long-time ally that they have our support and to stand up against terrorism. Instead, Speaker Johnson has chosen to place conditions on support for our allies and to use the crisis in the Middle East to help the ultrawealthy cheat on their taxes. While he claims this bill is an attempt to offset the cost of this aid, it would instead add nearly $30 billion to the debt.

“I continue to strongly support Israel’s efforts to defeat Hamas and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Palestinians, but I cannot support a bill that sets such a dangerous precedent. Throughout our history, we have supported our allies without conditions. This aid for Israel should be no different. History will remember this moment for what it is – an extreme attempt by Republicans to put partisanship over peace.

“While deeply disappointing, we cannot be deterred in our national security goals. We must continue to support Israel and do all we can to ensure aid is delivered to those in need. I stand ready to support the Senate’s bipartisan supplemental package which will include Israel, Ukraine, and Indo-Pacific funding.”