U.S. Senate Engages in Marathon Vote on Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill"
The U.S. Senate has concluded a grueling 17-hour "vote-a-rama" session, intensely debating President Donald Trump’s ambitious tax-and-spending package, dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” The proposed measure seeks sweeping tax cuts, largely offset by trillions in new federal debt, and now heads back to the House of Representatives for a final vote.
Despite a narrow Republican majority, the bill faced significant opposition from within the party, including Senators Rand Paul of Kentucky and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, who voiced concerns over fiscal responsibility and the impact of proposed Medicaid cuts on their states. Tillis, who had previously indicated he would not seek re-election over his opposition, was a key hurdle.
The comprehensive bill includes reductions in Medicaid funding, expanded tax breaks, and restrictions on funding for Planned Parenthood. Numerous amendments proposed by Democrats, aimed at softening the bill's impact, were not adopted.
In parallel to the legislative battle, President Trump issued executive orders lifting broad sanctions on Syria, effective July 1, 2025, while reaffirming existing embargoes on Cuba. He also publicly criticized entrepreneur Elon Musk, who had called the bill "utterly insane, destructive," leading to a renewed public feud. Trump additionally threatened to cut federal funding for New York City.
The "One Big Beautiful Bill" is projected to add over $3 trillion to the national debt over the next decade, with some estimates suggesting it could reach $5 trillion if temporary provisions are made permanent. If enacted, this legislation would fundamentally reshape America’s fiscal policy, setting the stage for protracted political battles over its economic and social consequences.
I’m Adedayo Obadina
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