Massive Bill Faces Opposition Within Republican Ranks
Senate Republicans are scrambling to push President Donald Trump’s $3.3 trillion tax and spending package through Congress, facing rising tension and internal opposition over its impact on the soaring U.S. national debt.
As voting approaches, divisions within the party have deepened, with some senators raising alarm over the bill's estimated cost—$800 billion more than the House version—according to a report by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).
Marathon Amendment Session Highlights Deep Rifts
In a marathon Senate session, lawmakers debated a flood of amendments from both parties, navigating a fast-track process that bypasses the usual 60-vote threshold. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) offered cautious optimism, saying, “Never until we vote,” when asked about the bill’s prospects.
Democrats Slam the Bill as a Giveaway to the Wealthy
Democratic leaders, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, fiercely criticized the measure, accusing Republicans of slashing public programs to finance tax cuts for billionaires. “This bill steals healthcare and raises electricity bills just to reward the wealthy,” Schumer warned.
Hot-Button Issues Embedded in Legislation
The bill includes highly controversial provisions:
-
Cuts to Medicaid and other social programs.
-
Restrictions on funding for gender transition-related medical procedures.
-
Increased immigration enforcement measures targeting migrant children.
Democratic amendments aiming to restore funding for healthcare, reproductive services, and consumer protections were all rejected by the GOP majority.
Debt Ceiling Tensions Add Pressure
The bill raises the federal debt ceiling by $5 trillion—one trillion more than the House’s version. Without action, the Treasury could soon hit its borrowing limit, risking a historic default. The debt ceiling provision has led key Republicans like Senators Rand Paul (KY) and Thom Tillis (NC) to oppose the bill.
External Voices Weigh In: Musk, Business Leaders React
Former government efficiency czar Elon Musk criticized both parties for reckless spending, calling them members of the “porky pig party.” Meanwhile, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce supports the bill, citing its benefits to small businesses, but others argue the tax breaks disproportionately benefit the wealthiest firms.
Healthcare Coverage At Risk
CBO estimates the bill could leave nearly 12 million more Americans uninsured, surpassing the projected impact of the House version. Critics say the legislation fails to protect vulnerable populations while delivering major wins to large corporations and defense spending.
Slim Margins, High Stakes
With Republicans holding narrow majorities, the bill’s passage remains uncertain. GOP leaders can afford to lose only three votes in either chamber, while Democrats are united in opposition. If passed, the bill would extend Trump’s 2017 tax cuts, increase military and border security funding, and reshape healthcare and social spending.
