Senate GOP Backs Trump’s ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ Amid Last-Minute Negotiations, Prepares for High-Stakes Showdown in the House | CNN Politics

Senate Republicans Approve Major Tax and Spending Cuts

Senate Republicans recently managed to pass a significant tax and spending cuts package championed by former President Donald Trump. After days of intense negotiations, the Senate approved the bill narrowly, with a critical tie-breaking vote from Vice President JD Vance.

As the House prepares to tackle the bill, it faces a challenging road ahead. The GOP is deeply divided, and many members have expressed doubts about supporting the plan. House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune have been working hard to rally support to ensure the bill’s passage.

The multitrillion-dollar legislation includes tax cuts and increased funding for national security, funded in part by substantial cuts to social safety net programs. Critics warn that these changes could affect millions of Americans who rely on these services.

The package underwent several last-minute adjustments aimed at appeasing dissenting senators. For instance, the rural hospital fund was doubled to $50 billion to win over centrist Republicans. Additionally, some controversial Medicaid provisions were altered or dropped altogether.

Lindsey Graham, a Republican senator, humorously noted the uncertainty surrounding the vote, comparing the bill’s persistence to "vampires," suggesting that it was hard to bring it to a halt.

The urgent nature of the vote coincided with the upcoming Fourth of July celebrations, as both leaders aimed for Trump to sign the bill during a special ceremony. However, even if the House passes it, many fear further changes could arise during negotiations with the Senate.

Data from recent surveys show that a significant portion of the American public is concerned about the impact of these tax cuts on social services. A Pew Research study revealed that about 65% of Americans believe that government spending on social programs is essential, reflecting a growing demand for maintaining support for vulnerable populations.

In the backdrop of these developments, social media reactions have highlighted the stark divides within the GOP and the potential repercussions for those facing cuts to essential services. As the House takes up the bill, all eyes will be on the negotiations that follow.

The stakes are high, and while some Republicans express optimism, the upcoming discussions may reveal deeper divides that could reshape the final outcome.

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