House OKs $87.5 billion to stabilize, rebuild Iraq
WASHINGTON -- The House, putting aside questions about the mission in Iraq, gave strong endorsement early today to a $87.5 billion package to sustain U.S. military forces and rebuild the shattered nations of Iraq and Afghanistan. "Congress stood with the president and our soldiers tonight, sending them the support they need to defend our nation and all those working to advance freedom abroad," said Rep. Roy Blunt, R-Mo. The package, approved 298-121 shortly after midnight, includes nearly $65 billion for military personnel and operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and an additional $18.6 billion for reconstruction efforts in Iraq. All three Utahns in the House -- Republican Reps. Rob Bishop and Chris Cannon and Democratic Rep. Jim Matheson -- voted in favor of the bill. The Senate is expected to follow suit quickly, sending President Bush a package that closely mirrors his original request.
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