The Senate narrowly advanced President Donald Trump’s sweeping tax break and spending cut plan late Saturday, pushing forward a key procedural vote despite internal party tensions and opposition from Democrats.
The 51–49 vote came after hours of stalled negotiations, with Vice President JD Vance on standby to break a tie.
Divisions Within the GOP
Two Republicans—Sens. Thom Tillis and Rand Paul—joined all Democrats in voting against the bill. Tillis objected to proposed Medicaid cuts, warning they could strip healthcare from thousands in his state. The Congressional Budget Office estimated the bill would leave 11.8 million more Americans without health insurance by 2034.
Contentious Policy Proposals
The 940-page bill includes permanent extensions of Trump-era tax cuts, new tax breaks like untaxed tips, and $350 billion for national security and Trump’s deportation agenda. But it also proposes sharp cuts to Medicaid, food stamps, and green energy investments. Critics like Sen. Ron Wyden called the environmental rollbacks “a death sentence” for the clean energy sector.
High-Stakes Negotiations
Senators engaged in intense, last-minute negotiations, with figures like Majority Leader John Thune and JD Vance huddling with holdouts behind closed doors. Sen. Rick Scott later said, “We all want to get to yes,” signaling ongoing GOP efforts to unify around the bill.
Revisions and Parliamentarian Hurdles
Republicans revised portions of the bill to comply with Senate rules after proposals related to food stamps and consumer protections were initially struck down. A revised Medicaid cutback now includes a delayed start and a $25 billion fund to support rural hospitals.
Tax Impact and SALT Dispute
The bill’s benefits would favor top earners, giving them an average $12,000 tax cut, while low-income Americans could lose around $1,600, according to the CBO. A contentious provision on state and local tax (SALT) deductions was amended to raise the cap from $10,000 to $40,000 for five years, a compromise still dividing lawmakers.
Next Steps Toward Final Passage
All-night debate and further amendments await in the Senate. If passed, the legislation will head back to the House. With narrow GOP majorities, leaders must rally nearly every Republican vote to meet Trump’s goal of signing the bill by July 4.
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