The US Congress has moved forward with Donald Trump's extensive tax and spending legislation, marking a vital accomplishment for the president's domestic objectives. Following a contentious period of deliberation on Capitol Hill, the House of Representatives approved the bill with a narrow vote of 218 to 214 on Thursday afternoon, having previously received Senate approval by a single vote.
Despite concerns raised from various quarters, Trump had pressured the Republican Congress to finalize the bill by the July 4 holiday, when he plans to sign it into law during a ceremony at 17:00 EDT (22:00 BST). The Congressional Budget Office has predicted that the legislation could add a staggering $3.3 trillion (£2.4 trillion) to federal deficits over the upcoming decade and potentially strip health coverage from millions—a claim the White House counters.
In an address to reporters shortly after the House vote, Trump declared, "This is going to be a great bill for the country," asserting that the legislation would propel the country forward. Republican Speaker Mike Johnson, who emerged with optimism post-vote, credited the success of the bill to a shared belief among party members, stating, "I believed in the people that are standing here behind me."
Notably, the bill's passage wasn't straightforward. Representative Chip Roy, initially opposed to the Senate's version, eventually supported the final piece of legislation, claiming they reached a satisfactory compromise on crucial issues. However, it was not without dissent inside the party, as only two Republican lawmakers voted against the bill.
The closing hours before the vote were tumultuous, with a lengthy speech delivered by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries—lasting nearly nine hours—which aimed to delay proceedings and critique the implications of the bill on vulnerable populations. Democrats galvanized their voices against the legislation, painting it as detrimental to low-income Americans while benefitting the wealthy.
The approved legislation encompasses major cuts to food assistance and healthcare while permanently enshrining Trump's 2017 tax cuts, also imposing new taxes in certain areas. Crucial funding for border security and military expenditures has likewise been allocated.
Despite the overwhelming support from Republicans, the unified Democratic opposition underscored their disdain for the bill's structure, with notable criticisms from figures like Nancy Pelosi, who labeled it a perilous agenda for the country. As the legislative landscape evolves, the future of Trump's "big, beautiful bill" will likely remain a contentious topic among lawmakers and the public alike.
