Senate Advances Trump’s Sweeping Tax, Medicaid, and Border Security Legislation Amid Intense Debate

 

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate will begin a pivotal series of votes at 9 a.m. on June 30 on President Donald Trump's sweeping legislative package, which includes major tax cuts, significant reforms to Medicaid, and substantial funding increases for border security.

The 940-page bill, debated extensively since June 28, faces a complex amendment process—commonly referred to as a “vote-a-rama”—during which dozens of proposed changes will be considered. If passed, the House is expected to vote on the legislation by July 2, in accordance with Trump's demand to finalize the bill before Independence Day.

Key Developments:

• Initial Vote Narrowly Passes: On June 28, the bill cleared a procedural hurdle in the Senate by a 51–49 vote after over three hours of intense negotiations with President Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and key Senate Republicans.

• Amendment Showdown: The Senate clerk completed reading the entire bill aloud—a procedural move forced by Senate Democrats to delay proceedings. The floor now enters up to 20 hours of debate before amendment votes commence.

• Republican Division: Sens. Rand Paul (KY) and Thom Tillis (NC) were the only Republicans who opposed the initial debate. Tillis later announced he will not seek reelection in 2026, citing the bill’s projected $26 billion in Medicaid cuts to his state as a key concern. Trump responded by celebrating Tillis' departure and hinting at supporting a primary challenger.

• Fiscal Impact: The Congressional Budget Office estimates the legislation would add $3.3 trillion to the national debt over a decade. Critics, including Senate Democrats, accuse Republicans of using "fake math" to disguise the true cost, while supporters argue the bill extends current tax policy and should not be counted as new spending.

What's in the Bill:

• Tax Cuts: The bill extends Trump’s 2017 tax cuts and introduces new deductions—such as those for tips and overtime pay—while capping them at $25,000 annually and phasing out benefits for high earners.

• Medicaid Changes: The Senate version tightens eligibility with mandatory work requirements for able-bodied adults and introduces stricter verification processes. It maintains exemptions for certain vulnerable populations but is projected to cut coverage for millions over time.

• Debt Ceiling & Border Security: The bill raises the national debt ceiling by $5 trillion and allocates $150 billion to the Department of Homeland Security, including $45 billion for detention centers and $27 billion for mass deportation operations.

• Senior Benefits: Seniors would receive a $6,000 “bonus deduction” through 2028, on top of existing standard deductions, provided their income remains under $75,000 for individuals or $150,000 for couples.

Political Fallout:

• Elon Musk Opposition: Tech billionaire and former Trump adviser Elon Musk criticized the bill as “political suicide,” warning it could destroy jobs and harm America’s long-term competitiveness.

• Democratic Pushback: Senate Democrats, including Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Patty Murray, lambasted the bill as a handout to the wealthy that slashes funding for safety-net programs. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) went further, calling the package a “s--- sandwich” on social media.

• Republican Defense: GOP Senators John Thune, Markwayne Mullin, and John Barrasso defended the bill as a pro-growth initiative that fulfills campaign promises of tax relief, stronger borders, and job creation.

Unresolved Issues:

• Parliamentarian Rulings: Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough has removed several contentious Medicaid provisions. While some Republicans called for her removal, Majority Leader Thune stated the party has no plans to overrule her.

• Trump’s Influence: Trump continues to play an active role, publicly pressuring dissenting Republicans and backing the Senate’s accounting tactics to minimize the bill’s apparent cost. He has warned against any unelected officials, including the parliamentarian, obstructing the legislation.

Next Steps:

The Senate is expected to conclude debate and begin voting on amendments throughout June 30. If the bill passes, the House will vote July 2. Trump is pressing Congress to finalize the legislation before July 4.

Source; usatoday