Senate Republicans Pass Trump’s Controversial Mega-Bill Amidst Divided Opinions

The Senate has approved Donald Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," with Vice-President Vance casting the crucial tie-breaking vote after intense debate. The bill, which includes major tax cuts and reduced spending on social programs, now moves to the House where it faces opposition. Critics highlight concerns over deficit increases and potential harm to vulnerable populations.

After a lengthy and contentious session, Republicans in the U.S. Senate have successfully advanced Donald Trump's ambitious tax and spending legislation, referred to as the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." The measure passed in a nail-biting vote, with Vice-President JD Vance providing the decisive tie-breaking vote after more than 24 hours of deliberation.

This legislation is seen as a critical part of Trump's agenda for a potential second term, proposing to make permanent certain tax cuts that were initially enacted during his first presidency. However, the bill also includes significant cuts to various social programs, which have raised alarms among Democrats and some Republicans alike.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune faced challenges in securing the necessary votes, with three Republicans—Susan Collins, Thom Tillis, and Rand Paul—voting against the bill. Meanwhile, Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski, despite initially holding out due to concerns over Medicaid cuts in her state, ultimately supported the bill after considerable negotiations. Murkowski expressed her unease with the rushed process, indicating significant concerns for vulnerable citizens impacted by the legislation.

Trump, appearing at a migrant detention facility in Florida, praised the bill as an accomplishment, stating, "It’s a great bill. There is something for everyone.” However, the road ahead remains fraught with challenges as the bill heads back to the House of Representatives, where it previously faced opposition and must navigate a narrow approval path.

Democrats attempted to stall the bill’s progression through procedural maneuvers, including mandatory readings of the entire legislation span of 940 pages. Concerns over the potential addition of approximately $650 billion to the national deficit have also surfaced among fiscal conservatives within the Republican Party, creating further friction.

Elon Musk, although initially a Trump supporter, has emerged as a vocal critic of the proposed cuts, suggesting a split within Republican allegiances regarding the bill. He has even hinted at forming a new political party if it passes, indicating deepening divisions.

With a looming July 4 deadline set by Trump for the finalized passage of the bill, the fate of this landmark legislation remains uncertain as House Republicans gear up for the next round of negotiations amidst mounting pressures from various factions within the party.