GOP opposition to IMF funds delays spending bill

House Democratic leaders won’t bring up the supplemental spending bill Friday as they scramble to come up with enough votes to pass it amid a wall of opposition from Republicans to directing money to the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

The bill, which includes money for a troop increase in Afghanistan, had been scheduled for a vote Friday. Leadership aides said Thursday that the vote could be held next week.

{mosads}”We are still working through the legislation,” said Kristie Greco, spokeswoman for House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.).

Republicans and Democrats joined in voting for the bill last month, without the IMF funding. But 51 Democrats voted against it — mainly anti-war lawmakers opposed to the buildup in Afghanistan.

Since 200 voted for it, Pelosi will need to get 18 of the 51 “no” Democrats to change their votes. It could take more if there are Democrats who oppose IMF funding.

The Senate added $5 million to cover the risk of default on a new $100 billion line of credit for the IMF.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) acknowledged in a news conference Thursday that leaders will have to pass the bill with no Republican votes.

“The IMF has strong support on the Democratic side,” Pelosi said. “We view it as alleviation of poverty.”

Democrats say that Republicans could be cast as voting against the troops if they oppose the bill. Republicans say they don’t expect that argument to stick.