House Republicans Fail to Pass Trump's 'Beautiful' Bill Amidst Conservative Backlash

2025-05-17 12:00:14.753

House Republicans suffered a setback on Friday as their ambitious tax cut and spending bill, dubbed the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," failed to pass the Budget Committee. A small group of conservative Republicans joined all Democrats in opposing the bill, citing insufficient spending cuts to programs like Medicaid and the Biden-era green energy tax breaks. These conservatives warn that the tax cuts alone would significantly increase the national debt. The 16-21 vote against the bill temporarily stalls House Speaker Mike Johnson's plan for a full House vote next week, although a Sunday reconvening is planned. The bill, totaling 1,116 pages, faces opposition from both the far-right and some moderates. Conservatives, many from the Freedom Caucus, want steeper cuts, particularly to Medicaid, including immediate work requirements for aid recipients. Meanwhile, Republicans from high-tax states demand a larger state and local tax (SALT) deduction. President Trump urged party unity, but his plea was not enough to overcome the divisions. Democrats strongly criticized the bill, labeling it a "betrayal" and warning of millions losing healthcare and food assistance. The bill includes extending existing income tax cuts, adding new ones (no taxes on tips, overtime, some auto loans), increasing tax breaks for middle-income earners, and providing funds for Trump's deportation agenda and the Pentagon. To offset the $5 trillion in lost revenue, it proposes rolling back green energy tax credits and slashing over $1 trillion from healthcare and food assistance programs. The Congressional Budget Office estimates millions would lose health insurance and food stamps. While Republicans claim the bill will pay for itself through economic growth, outside analysts are skeptical. Negotiations are ongoing as Speaker Johnson aims for a House vote by Memorial Day.