Duval Times

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In a move that has drawn criticism from Senator Rick Scott, Senate Democrats have blocked the passage of a bill that would provide standalone aid to Israel. Senator Scott, who has been a vocal advocate for aid to Israel, spoke on the Senate floor today to request the immediate passage of the bill.

The House of Representatives had already passed its own lethal aid package for Israel, and Senator Scott was urging the Senate to follow suit. He emphasized the importance of swift action, as Israel is currently engaged in a war against Iran-backed Hamas terrorists. This conflict has already claimed the lives of thousands of Israelis, including 33 Americans, and has left hundreds held hostage.

Senator Scott expressed his frustration with the Democratic Party's approach to the aid package, stating, "I'm sick and tired of Democrats, Biden, and Washington's ruling class continuing to use crisis after crisis to push massive spending packages for issues that have no business being voted on together."

He commended the House for passing a standalone aid package for Israel and called on the Senate to show its support for their colleagues by passing the bill as well. However, his request for unanimous consent was blocked by Senator Patty Murray.

Senator Scott criticized Senator Murray's decision, stating, "It is disgusting that my colleague would put politics above national security and what is clearly in the best interest of the United States and our great ally Israel." He further emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that American lives are at risk and that Americans are still being held hostage by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists.

He concluded by saying, "There's absolutely no reason to delay aid to Israel as a bargaining chip. It is shameful that this is what the Democrat Party has turned into."

The Senate Democrats' decision to block the standalone aid package for Israel has drawn attention and sparked debate. Critics argue that the move puts politics above national security and jeopardizes the lives of both Americans and Israelis.

It remains to be seen what the next steps will be in providing aid to Israel, but the issue is likely to continue to be a point of contention in the Senate.

Click this link to access more information: https://www.rickscott.senate.gov/2023/11/video-release-senate-democrats-block-sen-rick-scott-s-bill-to-provide-standalone-aid-to-israel