Former President Donald Trump’s sweeping legislative package—dubbed the “one big, beautiful bill”—took a major step forward Sunday night after narrowly clearing the House Budget Committee in a dramatic late-night vote.
The bill, aimed at advancing major parts of Trump’s agenda through the budget reconciliation process, passed 17–16, with four conservative Republicans voting “present” after earlier blocking the bill on Friday. Those GOP holdouts had demanded stronger provisions on Medicaid work requirements and repealing green energy tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act.
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) made a surprise appearance before the vote, signaling confidence and promising “minor modifications” before the bill reaches the full House. “I’m absolutely convinced we’re going to get this in final form and pass it in accordance with our original deadline,” he said.
What’s in the Bill?
The package is designed to fast-track Trump’s policy priorities without needing Democratic support in the Senate. Key elements include:
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Tax cuts
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Stricter immigration controls
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Defense spending increases
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Medicaid work requirements (starting in 2029)
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Rollbacks on green energy subsidies
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Adjustments to the national debt ceiling
How Republicans Got on the Same Page
Freedom Caucus members—Reps. Chip Roy (R-Texas), Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), and others—initially blocked the bill, concerned about long timelines and watered-down reforms. Over the weekend, they secured written assurances from GOP leadership that their priorities would be included.
“This lays the foundation for tax relief, border security, and important spending reforms,” Roy said in a statement.
What’s Next?
The bill now heads to the House Rules Committee, where further amendments are expected. Then, it will face a full House vote. But the path doesn’t end there—Republican senators have already hinted at making changes of their own, meaning the House may have to vote again on a final version.
Despite internal differences—especially around Medicaid reforms and state-and-local tax deductions (SALT)—GOP leaders are pushing to have the legislation on Trump’s desk by the Fourth of July.
Using reconciliation, Republicans can bypass Senate filibuster rules and pass the bill with a simple majority—as long as it stays focused on budget-related issues.
