Senate Moves Ahead With Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” — Final Outcome Unclear
The Senate voted 51–49 to advance Trump’s sweeping economic legislation featuring tax cuts and spending changes . But major GOP divides and looming deadlines raise uncertainty about its future .
Senate Clears Procedural Hurdle
On June 28, 2025, the U.S. Senate voted 51–49 along party lines to advance President Trump’s sweeping tax spending and border-security bill officially known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” for full debate. Only two Republicans—Sen. Rand Paul (KY) and Sen . Thom Tillis (NC)—joined Democrats in opposing the measure citing debt and Medicaid concerns. Initially hesitant Sen . Ron Johnson (WI) flipped to a “yes” vote at the last minute preventing a 50–50 split that would have required Vice President intervention .
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What’s in the Bill
The 940-page legislation combines multiple Republican priorities:
- Permanent Trump-era tax cuts with new deductions for tips and overtime .
- A temporary increase in the SALT deduction cap to $40,000 through 2029 .
- Increased funding for border security and the military totaling hundreds of billions .
- Deep cuts to Medicaid SNAP benefits and clean-energy tax credits .
- Provider tax reforms and a slower Medicaid funding phaseout for expansion states .
According to the Congressional Budget Office the bill could increase the deficit by $3.3 trillion over 10 years and leave 11.8 million fewer Americans insured by 2034 .
Legislative Dynamics & GOP Fractures
The bill advanced after intense negotiations led by Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) that included :
- A SALT deduction compromise for earners under $500K
- Accelerated expiration of clean-energy incentives
- Medicaid funding adjustments to sway holdouts like Sen. Lisa Murkowski (AK) and Sen. Josh Hawley (MO) .
Still Republicans remain divided. Moderates like Sen. Susan Collins (ME) are wary of social program cuts while conservatives like Tillis and Paul argue the bill increases national debt .
What Happens Next
The bill now enters a marathon amendment phase including a “vote-a-rama” where senators can introduce unlimited amendments. Democrats are demanding a full floor reading of the bill in protest. GOP leaders aim to pass the bill before July 4 after which it will head to the House for further action .
Outlook & Open Questions
- As the bill advances key questions remain:
- Can Republicans maintain unity despite ideological rifts
- Will the House with a slim GOP majority accept the Senate’s version
- Will deficit warnings and healthcare coverage losses alienate moderates
- Could parliamentary rulings eliminate or weaken major provisions
Conclusion
While Trump’s “big beautiful bill” has passed a critical first vote its legislative journey is far from over. With a razor-thin majority internal GOP divisions and Democratic resistance the coming days will determine whether this ambitious package survives the Senate and reaches the President’s desk by Independence Day .