The voting patterns of Illinois members in Congress on Israel and Ukraine bills: An analysis of their methods and motivations

Illinois Delegation Divided on Foreign Aid Package Votes

In a series of crucial votes on Saturday, the Illinois delegation in the House of Representatives showcased a clear divide on foreign aid packages for Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan. Chicago Democrats Reps. Delia Ramirez, Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, and Jonathan Jackson voted against an aid package for Israel, while Rep. Darin LaHood broke ranks with GOP colleagues Mary Miller and Mike Bost to support sending aid to Ukraine.

The $95 billion combined foreign aid packages included funding for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, as well as provisions addressing TikTok and sanctions on Hamas. The House passed the measures with Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson relying on Democrats to secure the votes.

The Israel aid package, totaling $26.38 billion, saw 37 Democrats, including Garcia, Jackson, and Ramirez, voting against it. Rep. Jan Schakowsky, who had reservations about the bill, ultimately voted yes, citing the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

On the Ukraine aid package, which passed 311-112, LaHood joined 101 Republicans in supporting the bill, while Miller and Bost were among the 112 in the party who voted no.

The Taiwan and Indo-Pacific security supplemental, totaling $8.12 billion, received unanimous support from the Illinois delegation.

The “Peace Through Strength Act,” which imposes sanctions on Palestinian terrorist groups and forces China to sell TikTok, passed with bipartisan support, although Reps. Jackson, Ramirez, Garcia, and Danny Davis voted against it.

The votes highlight the complex and nuanced perspectives within the Illinois delegation on foreign aid and international relations.