Senate Pulls All-Nighter: GOP Budget Advances Amidst Democratic Opposition

Senators pulled an all-nighter in Washington, working through a crucial budget process that could release a massive $340 billion for President Trump’s immigration agenda. This plan focuses on mass deportations and improving border security—key issues for Republicans.

If you’re interested in how Congress operates, this was a night to watch. Senators voted on numerous amendments, many of which came from Democrats trying to block the bill. By the end, it looked like Republicans would use their majority to push the package through.

Senate Budget Chair Lindsey Graham opened the debate, saying this was an opportunity for the GOP to support Trump’s immigration goals. He mentioned that the administration needed more funds for deportation operations as they had run out of money.

With limited power, Democrats aimed to put GOP senators on the spot with potentially controversial votes. For instance, they tried to block tax breaks for billionaires, but the amendment was rejected.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer warned that this would be a protracted battle. The budget package Republicans are rallying around is just the beginning. It’s seen as a foundation for further legislation, including around $4.5 trillion in tax breaks and cuts to healthcare programs. House Speaker Mike Johnson is working on a separate budget that seeks to reduce spending by up to $2 trillion.

Trump has preferred a single, comprehensive bill but is open to taking a step-by-step approach, starting with border issues first. As voting began, he showed his support for Senate actions on his agenda.

The Republican plan includes significant funding for border security, with $175 billion allocated for deportation efforts and constructing the border wall. It also earmarks $150 billion for the Pentagon and an additional $20 billion for the Coast Guard.

However, passing the budget doesn’t mean funding will immediately follow. It’s a framework directing Senate committees like Homeland Security and Armed Services to draft details. Future bills and debates will shape how the funds are ultimately used.

Sen. John Barrasso emphasized the need to give the administration resources to address illegal border crossings effectively. He asserted that the budget will help complete the border wall and increase support for more border agents and deportation efforts. Republicans claim this will be funded without adding to the national debt, using spending cuts and possible new revenues.

Democrats are gearing up for a fight. They initially attempted to prevent tax breaks for billionaires, arguing that the 2017 GOP tax cuts only benefited the rich. While these efforts failed, they did garner some bipartisan support from a few Republicans.

Schumer’s team is focusing on revealing the consequences of GOP tax policies, shifting from a direct fight against immigration measures that could split their party. By midnight, at least a dozen amendments had been discussed.

Democrat Patty Murray remarked that Republican tax cuts have significantly contributed to the national debt yet again, criticizing current GOP plans as prioritizing wealthy Americans over everyday families.

This budget resolution sets the stage for a process known as reconciliation, which allows significant legislation to pass with a simple majority. Republicans are currently split on strategy, with the House aiming high on its plans while the Senate prefers a more gradual approach.

Ultimately, the battle over this budget reflects ongoing tensions within the Republican Party, as Trump urges quick action while debates unfold in Congress.