House Republicans Advance Sweeping Tax and Spending Bill Amid Internal GOP Divisions

In a rare Sunday night session on May 18, 2025, House Republicans narrowly advanced President Donald Trump’s comprehensive tax and spending package, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” through the Budget Committee with a 17-16 vote. The advancement came after four conservative Republicans, who had previously opposed the bill, voted “present,” allowing the measure to proceed.

The legislation aims to make permanent the 2017 tax cuts and introduces new tax breaks, including exemptions on tips, overtime, and auto loan interest. It also proposes significant allocations for border security and defense spending while seeking cuts in areas such as Medicaid and green energy programs.

Despite the committee’s approval, the bill faces internal GOP tensions. Members of the House Freedom Caucus are demanding accelerated spending cuts and earlier implementation of work requirements for Medicaid recipients, currently set for 2029. Additionally, some moderate Republicans express concerns over reductions in social programs and the potential fiscal impact of the bill.

Speaker Mike Johnson has acknowledged ongoing revisions and aims to bring the bill to the House floor before the Memorial Day deadline. If passed by the House, the bill would proceed to the Senate, where further changes are anticipated, potentially complicating final approval.

The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget warns that the bill could add $3.3 trillion to the national debt over the next decade. As the legislative process continues, the bill’s final version remains in flux as leaders strive to unite the fractured Republican caucus.

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