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On Tuesday, President Donald Trump visited Capitol Hill to rally House Republicans behind his sweeping legislative proposal, dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill.”
The bill encompasses a range of policy initiatives, including extensions of the 2017 tax cuts, increased defense and border security funding, and reforms to Medicaid and other social programs. Trump emphasized the urgency of passing the bill, stating, “We have a very, very united party,” and praised House Speaker Mike Johnson as a “real unifier.”
Despite Trump’s confidence, the bill faces internal GOP divisions. Fiscal conservatives, particularly members of the House Freedom Caucus, have expressed concerns over the bill’s impact on the federal deficit and the timeline for implementing Medicaid work requirements.
Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky has been a vocal critic, previously opposing similar large-scale spending packages. Trump has dismissed such dissent as “grandstanding,” urging unity within the party.
🚨 TRUMP ROASTS @RepThomasMassie…💀
“I don’t think Thomas Massie understands government. I think he’s a grandstander, frankly. He’ll probably vote [no] – we don’t even talk to him much. I think he should be voted out of office. I just don’t think he understands government.”… pic.twitter.com/iLVom4txym
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) May 20, 2025
The bill proposes substantial tax cuts, including eliminating taxes on overtime pay and providing additional deductions for seniors. However, analysts estimate that the legislation could add between $2.5 to $3.3 trillion to the national debt over the next decade. Proponents argue that the tax cuts will spur economic growth, while critics warn of long-term fiscal consequences.
Speaker Johnson aims to bring the bill to a House vote before the Memorial Day recess. With a slim Republican majority, the leadership can afford only a few defections. Late-night committee meetings and negotiations are ongoing to address concerns from both conservative and moderate members, particularly regarding state and local tax deductions and Medicaid reforms.
If the bill passes the House, it will proceed to the Senate, where it may face additional scrutiny and potential amendments. The outcome will depend on the GOP’s ability to reconcile internal differences and present a unified front in support of the legislation.
🔥 On the One, Big, Beautiful Bill:
“Here’s what I want on Medicaid, we’re not touching anything. All I want is one thing — three words — we don’t want ANY waste, fraud or abuse. Very simple.” – President Trump on Capitol Hill pic.twitter.com/z5ll46EyWB
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) May 20, 2025
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