Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill' Wins House Approval
The bill enacts several priorities of Trump's campaign
In a significant legislative victory, US President Donald Trump secured the narrow passage of his flagship "big beautiful bill" in Congress, with a final vote of 218-214. The bill is expected to be signed by Trump on Independence Day. Formally expanding and making permanent the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the legislation delivers sweeping fiscal changes.
It imposes strict limitations on Medicaid, a healthcare program relied upon by millions of low-income and disabled Americans. Some estimations suggest nearly 12 million people could lose their health coverage by the end of the next decade. The reduced funding also threatened the viability of numerous rural hospitals. The bill enacts several priorities of Trump's campaign, including a $4.5 trillion extension of tax relief, increased military and border security, and funding for a mass migrant deportation.
However, the bill has drawn opposition from Democratic lawmakers, who argue the legislation contributes to a large redistribution of wealth from the poorest Americans to the richest. Democratic minority leader Hakeem Jeffries voiced sharp criticism, speaking for nearly nine hours to delay voting procedures. Internal divisions also emerged within the Republican Party, with several moderates raising concerns about the bill's impact on the coming election. The Congressional Budget Office estimates it could add $3.3 trillion to the federal deficit over the next ten years.
"One of the most consequential Bills ever. The USA is the 'HOTTEST' Country in the World, by far!!!" Trump stated on social media following the bill's passage and last week's favourable Supreme Court ruling. The legislation has reportedly caused a rift between Trump and tech entrepreneur Elon Musk.