Trump to meet with GOP holdouts as negotiations over agenda bill falter: Sources
The fate of the “One Big, Beautiful Bill Act” hangs in the balance as a last-minute White House meeting takes place between President Donald Trump, Speaker Mike Johnson, and House Republican holdouts. The meeting, scheduled for 3 p.m., includes members of the House Freedom Caucus as GOP leaders scramble to salvage the bill after negotiations with hard-liners fell apart.
The bill, which addresses issues such as Medicaid, state and local tax deductions, SNAP food assistance, and immigration policy, faces significant opposition within the Republican Party. Hard-liners are particularly concerned about Medicaid work requirements and tax deductions, leading to a lack of unity among GOP members.
President Trump is actively involved in trying to sway holdouts to support the bill, even threatening to primary those who vote against it. The White House Office of Management and Budget released a letter urging the passage of the bill, emphasizing the importance of keeping promises made to the American people.
Despite efforts to rally support, Republican Rep. Ralph Norman acknowledges that negotiations are ongoing, and the bill is not finalized. Members of the House Freedom Caucus have varying demands, with some pushing for deeper cuts to Medicaid and the elimination of subsidies from previous legislation.
House Republican leadership highlights the bill’s significant spending cuts, exceeding targets set in the budget blueprint. However, Freedom Caucus Chairman Andy Harris expresses skepticism about the bill’s chances of passing, citing the need for additional changes to secure enough votes.
Meanwhile, a House Rules Committee hearing is underway to discuss the details of the bill, which spans over 1,000 pages. Committee members are debating amendments proposed by both Democrats and Republicans, with tensions running high during the overnight session.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticizes the bill, referring to it as “one, big ugly bill” that will harm millions of Americans. Democrats introduce an amendment to eliminate provisions that could result in millions losing healthcare and food assistance, further complicating the bill’s prospects.
As the debate continues, Republican and Democratic leaders clash over the bill’s contents, with both sides presenting amendments and voicing their concerns. The future of the “One Big, Beautiful Bill Act” remains uncertain, with the outcome dependent on the ability to address key issues and secure sufficient support within the House.
