House Set to Decide on Trump’s Major Policy Bill as Johnson Promises to Push It Through

US House Republicans were preparing to vote on Donald Trump’s tax-and-spending bill. This came a day after the Senate narrowly approved it. House Speaker Mike Johnson is trying to manage internal disagreements over changes made in the Senate, specifically regarding Medicaid, which helps low-income and disabled Americans.

The Senate passed the bill, thanks to a tie-breaking vote by Vice President JD Vance, after a lengthy, all-night session. Now, the House must review the updated bill. Johnson expressed that the Senate’s changes might be a bit more than what many House members wanted.

Despite this, Johnson remains determined to push the bill through. Trump wants it on his desk by the Fourth of July. Early Wednesday, the House rules committee advanced the bill for consideration. Johnson mentioned on Fox News that a House vote was expected, but weather delays could push it to Thursday at the latest.

Last month, the House had passed the original version of the bill by just one vote, overcoming unified opposition from Democrats. However, many fiscal conservatives are unhappy. They worry that the Senate’s version could increase the federal deficit even more than the earlier House plan.

With a slim GOP majority, any misstep could endanger the bill. Right-leaning fiscal conservatives want spending cuts, while moderates are cautious about cutting safety-net programs. Additionally, Republicans from states with Democratic representation may resist some tax measures.

Trump praised the Senate’s passage, calling it “music to my ears.” This bill is crucial for his agenda and is a top priority for congressional Republicans. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that it could add $3.3 trillion to the budget deficit by 2034.

The proposal would extend tax cuts from Trump’s first term in 2017 and create new tax breaks for tips, overtime, and some car loan interests. Importantly, it allocates significant funds for Trump’s immigration policies, including $45 billion for detention facilities and $14 billion for deportation efforts. Additionally, over $50 billion would go toward new border security measures, potentially including a wall along the Mexico border.

To address the concerns of fiscal conservatives, the bill introduces new work requirements for Medicaid recipients and limits the taxes states can impose to fund the program. It may also sunset incentives for green energy initiatives established under President Biden.

As this legislative process unfolds, public reaction is growing. Social media trends show mixed feelings about the bill. Supporters see it as vital for the nation’s economic strategy, while critics worry about its long-term implications on federal spending and social welfare. Understanding both perspectives will be crucial as this bill progresses through Congress, and the debate highlights ongoing division within the political landscape.

For more insights on the implications of this bill, you can read more at The Guardian.

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