A sweeping Trump-backed budget bill teeters on collapse as House Republicans fracture over deficits, social cuts, and voter backlash—with critical legislation now at risk of imploding before the July 4 recess.
At a Glance
- House Republicans failed to pass a procedural vote on July 2, stalling Trump’s budget bill.
- The bill includes deep cuts to Medicaid, food aid, and clean energy, while expanding tax breaks and defense spending.
- Five GOP lawmakers joined Democrats to block the rule after hours of debate.
- Polls show the bill is opposed by over 70% of Americans.
- A final vote remains uncertain as divisions widen and deadlines slip.
Historic Stalemate
Late on July 2, after one of the longest voting sessions in recent memory, five House Republicans broke ranks and joined Democrats to block the rule required to advance what Donald Trump called the “Big Beautiful Bill.” The legislation—already passed by the Senate on July 1—combines Trump-era tax cuts, massive domestic spending rollbacks, and border security boosts.
House Speaker Mike Johnson and Trump reportedly lobbied lawmakers into the early hours, hoping to salvage the vote. But GOP disunity remains fierce, with fiscal conservatives opposing its trillion-dollar price tag and moderates alarmed by deep cuts to Medicaid and SNAP benefits.
Watch a report: Trump’s Budget Bill Hits Roadblock in House
GOP Split Widens
Party fractures are now in full view. The bill would add trillions to the national deficit, even as it repeals green energy credits, slashes housing subsidies, and expands funding for defense and border enforcement. Conservatives are calling it bloated and fiscally irresponsible. Moderates warn it could alienate suburban and working-class voters ahead of the midterms.
House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries extended floor debate for hours, using procedural maneuvers to stall momentum. Meanwhile, public polling has turned dire for the GOP: support for the bill hovers around 23%, with bipartisan majorities opposing core provisions.
High Stakes for Trump
The bill is designed to showcase Trump’s legislative power heading into the 2026 cycle. But the backlash may be overpowering the message. Voters are largely unaware of the bill’s contents, and what they do know—benefits for the wealthy and service cuts for the poor—has proven toxic.
GOP leaders have vowed to hold another vote, but time is running out. If the bill fails, it could deliver a crushing blow to Trump’s legislative agenda—and a potent rallying cry for Democrats.
