House approves Harvey aid as debt wrangling begins
The House on Wednesday approved $7.85 billion in Hurricane Harvey disaster relief, setting up a controversial legislative maneuver in which the bill is expected to be paired in the Senate with legislation raising the debt ceiling.
The Harvey aid was easily cleared in an overwhelming 419-3 vote, but the margin could be closer if lawmakers are asked to vote again for a package that combines Harvey aid with the debt ceiling bill. All three no votes came from Republican lawmakers.
The package would set up a tough vote for many House Republicans, who want to back relief for Harvey victims but do not want to vote on legislation that raises the debt ceiling, but does nothing to restrict future government spending.
As the House debated the Harvey bill, President Trump met with congressional leaders from both parties: Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-Wis.), Senate Minority Leader Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.).
http://thehill.com/policy/finance/349438-house-approves-harvey-aid-as-debt-wrangling-begins
