rki.news
WASHINGTON, July 1 – The U.S. Senate on Tuesday narrowly passed President Donald Trump’s flagship legislation, the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” marking a major Republican victory ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
The bill passed by a 51–50 vote, with Vice President JD Vance casting the tie-breaking ballot. Republican Senators Susan Collins, Thom Tillis, and Rand Paul were the only GOP members to oppose the measure.
The sweeping legislation extends Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, eliminates taxes on tipped income, and allocates significant funding for the military and border security. Senate Majority Leader John Thune hailed the bill as “historic,” saying it would make America “stronger, safer, and more prosperous.”
President Trump expressed confidence the bill would pass the House, calling it “a great bill” with “something for everyone.” He aims to sign it into law by July 4.
Democrats have sharply criticized the bill, citing deep cuts to social programs and its potential to significantly increase the national debt. They argue the tax breaks favor the wealthy while reducing funding for Medicaid, food assistance, and other vital services.
According to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), the bill would add $2.4 trillion to the national debt over the next decade and increase the federal deficit by $3.3 trillion between 2025 and 2034. The CBO also estimated that 11.8 million Americans could lose health insurance coverage by 2034 due to Medicaid and subsidy changes.
With the House expected to vote as early as Wednesday, critics warn the legislation could widen inequality and strain public services. Despite opposition, Republicans are pushing for swift passage to meet Trump’s Independence Day deadline.