In a tense late-night Senate session on Saturday, Republican senators narrowly pushed forward a key procedural vote, advancing President Donald Trump’s expansive tax reform, spending reductions, and increased deportation funding package. With a vote of 51-49, this step brings them closer to meeting Trump’s desired deadline of July Fourth for the legislation’s passage.
The Senate was abuzz with activity as Vice President JD Vance was present to cast a potentially decisive vote; however, the session stretched over three hours as negotiations took place behind the scenes. Ultimately, two Republicans sided with Democrats, voting against the motion to proceed.
Although Republicans control both houses of Congress, they face hurdles in garnering unified support. Not every Republican is in favor of the significant cuts to Medicaid, food stamps, and other social programs, which are proposed to offset the $3.8 trillion in tax breaks. Despite mounting opposition, Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed optimism, stating, “It’s time to get this legislation across the finish line.”
Adding to the pressure, the White House voiced strong support for the bill, emphasizing the importance of passing the legislation. Meanwhile, Trump was at his Virginia golf course while keeping an eye on developments, later expressing frustration at dissent within the party, notably targeting Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina for his concerns about Medicaid cutbacks potentially leaving many without healthcare.
There are growing external pressures as well, with figures like Elon Musk criticizing the fiscal package. Republicans unveiled the massive 940-page bill late Friday night, setting the stage for extended debate and amendment discussions in the following days. Should the Senate pass the bill, it will head back to the House of Representatives for another vote before becoming law.
Narrow margins in both houses mean Republican leaders must maintain nearly unanimous support. However, the Congressional Budget Office has projected a rise of 11.8 million uninsured individuals by 2034 under the Senate version of the bill.
Democratic leader Chuck Schumer criticized the Republicans for unveiling the bill under cover of night to expedite its passage before the general public becomes aware of its contents. Schumer even forced a prolonged reading of the bill to highlight his objections.
This weekend’s legislative session could be the defining moment for Trump’s administration and his tax reform agenda, a crucial aspect of his domestic policy. Trump continues to urge Republican lawmakers to support the bill, despite internal dissent.
The legislative package aims to permanently extend tax cuts from Trump’s first term, preventing potential tax hikes for Americans. It also invests $350 billion in national security, including Trump’s deportation initiatives, but plans to trim Medicaid, food stamps, and green energy investments have stirred controversy, with some fearing severe economic consequences.
As GOP lawmakers navigate these complexities, intra-party dialogue continues. Tillis shared his apprehensions directly with Trump, focusing on the Medicaid provisions, while Sen. Rand Paul objected to provisions that would hike the nation’s debt limit by an additional $5 trillion. Although initially resistant, Sen. Ron Johnson of Wisconsin eventually agreed to advance the legislation following confidential talks.
Negotiations intensified surrounding Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska, who eventually supported the motion. Later discussions among senators, spearheaded by Vance, sought compromise on stricter spending cuts to address wider financial concerns.
Efforts to align the Senate draft with parliamentary standards, notably the Byrd Rule, delayed its release. Various proposals encountered setbacks, but Republicans amended and reinstated these elements in the latest version, such as plans for phased Medicaid provider tax cuts and funds for rural healthcare facilities.
The Congressional Budget Office revealed troubling predictions for the bill’s impact, particularly a significant reduction in access to healthcare and food aid. The draft indicates that wealthier individuals could benefit from substantial tax breaks, while low-income Americans might face financial strain.
A key sticking point remains the SALT — state and local tax — deduction, a contentious issue for Republicans from high-tax states. Although some lawmakers advocated raising the current cap, compromises proposed allow limited deductions for a five-year span, failing to appease all parties involved.
As discussions unfold, House Speaker Mike Johnson has instructed representatives to stay prepared for further deliberations in Washington, with the legislative deadline fast approaching.