Cornyn Threatens to Block 2 Trump Envoys Over Africa AIDS Funding

3 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Jul 21

John Cornyn told the White House he will not vote to advance Kari Lake and Doug Mastriano unless it gives firm assurances that PEPFAR funds for Africa will be released.
Wednesday’s Senate Foreign Relations Committee vote gives Cornyn unusual leverage: Republicans hold a 12-10 edge, so he could stall both ambassador nominations if they otherwise move on party lines.
The dispute centers on PEPFAR, the U.S. HIV/AIDS program credited with saving millions of lives, after the administration cut more than 100 related contracts and grants last year and has kept pressing reductions.
Cornyn’s threat is his second break with Trump in less than a week after losing his Texas primary to Trump-backed Ken Paxton, adding to broader friction between the White House and sidelined GOP senators over nominations.