In a major setback for President Trump’s legislative agenda, the House Budget Committee on Friday failed to advance the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” a sweeping tax and spending package.
The bill was rejected in a 21-16 vote, with five Republicans—Reps. Chip Roy (Texas), Ralph Norman (South Carolina), Josh Brecheen (Oklahoma), Andrew Clyde (Georgia), and Lloyd Smucker (Pennsylvania)—joining all Democrats in opposition. Smucker’s “no” vote was procedural, allowing for a potential reconsideration of the bill.
The dissenting Republicans expressed concerns over the bill’s projected $3.3 trillion increase to the national deficit over the next decade. They criticized the legislation for prioritizing immediate spending while delaying significant savings, particularly regarding Medicaid reforms. Under the current proposal, work requirements for Medicaid recipients would not take effect until 2029, a timeline the conservatives deemed too lenient.
The 1,116-page bill aimed to extend and expand Trump-era tax cuts, including exemptions for tips, overtime, and certain auto loans. It also proposed increasing the standard deduction and child tax credit, while allocating $350 billion for immigration enforcement and defense. To offset these costs, the bill suggested over $1 trillion in cuts to healthcare and food assistance programs, potentially affecting millions of Americans.
President Trump expressed frustration over the bill’s failure, urging Republicans to unite and accusing dissenters of grandstanding. House Speaker Mike Johnson remains committed to bringing the bill to the floor before Memorial Day, with negotiations ongoing to address concerns from both conservative and moderate Republicans. Adjustments under consideration include accelerating Medicaid work requirements and modifying state and local tax deduction caps.
The bill’s defeat in committee spotlights the deep divisions within the Republican Party, as leaders attempt to reconcile differing priorities on fiscal responsibility and social welfare reforms. The outcome raises questions about the feasibility of advancing major legislative initiatives amid such internal discord, hindering Trump’s aim to get the MAGA agenda going.
The ONE BIG, BEAUTIFUL BILL will revitalize U.S. manufacturing investment and create new growth opportunities for existing manufacturers.
It will also deliver on @POTUS’ promise to provide tax relief for hardworking Americans while strengthening our labor market. https://t.co/SDmaQpBtzm
— Deputy Secretary Michael Faulkender (@TreasuryDepSec) May 16, 2025
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