The US House of Representatives late Wednesday cleared the debt ceiling deal struck over the weekend between US President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy in order to avert a government default in the coming week.
The deal, which was met with skepticism by congressional lawmakers - especially hardline conservatives, came down with a 314-117 vote. A total of 71 Republicans and 46 Democrats voted against the measure.
Earlier, as McCarthy sought to whip his party to back the deal, reports indicated that tensions had grown so dire that lawmakers were considering bringing a motion to oust the House speaker from his post, which he only gained in January after 15 ballots.
Speaking on the House floor, McCarthy told his fellow lawmakers that the lower chamber was "gonna give America hope" by clearing the legislation. "Tonight we're gonna vote for the largest savings in American history, over $2.1 trillion," he said ahead of the vote.
Hours before the Wednesday vote, House lawmakers voted 241-187 in favor of bringing the legislation for a vote despite strong pushback by conservatives. A total of 29 Republicans voted with most Democrats against the procedural vote, while 52 Democrats joined the majority in support.