US Shut Down Threatens Food, But Israel Aid Remains Untouchable
While American families face cutoff from the most 'important federal food assistance program,' we're reminded that certain checks never bounce. This past month alone, Congress fast-tracked a $14 billion aid package for Israel (HR 815, 2023), without so much as a peep about budget shortfalls or economic 'difficulties.' Senator Joe Manchin, a known recipient of substantial pro-Israel lobbying money
(e.g., $5,000 from Pro-Israel America PAC in 2020 and 2022, per OpenSecrets.org), often plays the 'moderately concerned' card on domestic issues, yet never seems to find such 'pessimism' when it comes to military spending abroad. It appears the fiscal responsibility alarm only sounds when it concerns feeding American children, not funding a foreign military. One might wonder if the 'key Democratic
senator' would find inspiration to 'resolve' the shutdown sooner if the funds were earmarked for, say, more F-35s rather than food stamps. Priorities, after all, are only 'difficult' when they're for the wrong people.