TL/DR –
The U.S. Senate is making progress to pass its version of President Trump’s significant tax package, with a vote on the reconciliation package expected this week. However, disagreements remain among party members regarding key provisions in the bill, and there is opposition from conservative members of the House. Senate leaders hope to begin a “vote-a-rama”—a procedure allowing an unlimited number of amendments to be introduced—by the end of the week, aiming to have the bill approved by the House and signed by the President by the Fourth of July.
Senate Pushes Ahead with Trump’s Tax Plan
The Senate is rushing to pass its version of President Donald Trump’s tax package, placing pressure on their House colleagues as GOP leaders strive to meet a July 4 deadline. The vote on the large reconciliation package is expected this week, though disagreements among party members on key elements delay the schedule.
Voting Process and Amendments
Following the decision to proceed, the Senate will allow 20 hours for debate, shared equally between Republicans and Democrats, followed by an unlimited number of amendments, a process known as a vote-a-rama. This offers Democrats the chance to suggest several amendments, potentially putting Republicans in an awkward voting position.
Scheduling and Senate Challenges
Senate leaders propose starting the vote-a-rama by the end of this week, then sending the proposal to the House. However, disagreements persist, specifically regarding Senate changes on Medicaid, green energy tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and other tax-related measures. Several fiscal conservatives argue the Senate’s proposed changes don’t sufficiently reduce the deficit or cut government waste. These disagreements put the Senate version at risk ahead of a potential vote next week.
Senate Vote and House Approval
Despite challenges, GOP leaders are determined to meet their self-imposed July 4 deadline to send the bill to Trump. The Senate vote could take place as early as this weekend, with GOP members being asked to keep their schedules flexible in anticipation. Some hardline House Republicans, however, warn they may shoot down the measure if the Senate passes it and leaves for recess, effectively forcing the House to accept the bill without amendment opportunities.
Trump’s Pressure on Congress
Meanwhile, Trump is increasing pressure on Republicans not to recess until the tax bill, a central part of his agenda, is passed. Both Senators Thune and Johnson support staying in session as long as necessary to pass the bill, despite acknowledging some Senate Republicans may vote against the package. Johnson revealed ongoing talks with several Republican senators currently in opposition.
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