Trump details strategy to get necessary votes with one-bill approach to border, taxes

President-elect Trump recently discussed the strategic benefits of a one-bill approach to budget reconciliation during a closed-door meeting with Republican senators. By combining legislation relating to both the southern border crisis and taxes into one reconciliation bill, Trump suggested that this approach could potentially force lawmakers to make difficult decisions.

With portions of Trump’s 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act set to expire this year, the Republican party is looking to act quickly. However, the tax debate in 2025 is expected to be more divisive among Republicans, particularly regarding state and local tax (SALT) deductions. Some Republicans have criticized SALT deductions as inefficient and benefiting certain states more than others.

Trump highlighted a strategic component to his one-bill reconciliation approach, pointing out that if a Republican lawmaker doesn’t support a piece of the tax component, they would also have to vote against the border provisions because they are included in one measure. This could make it more challenging for lawmakers to oppose the entire bill.

While SALT deductions were not specifically mentioned by Trump, they were brought up by a GOP senator during a side conversation about the advantages of a one-bill approach. Republicans are reportedly preparing to move forward with Trump’s preference for a single reconciliation bill, although they are keeping the option for two separate bills on standby in case of significant obstacles.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune affirmed his support for Trump’s agenda during the meeting, emphasizing that they would try the one-bill approach first. Despite some senators advocating for two separate reconciliation bills, the conference is poised to follow Trump’s lead.

During the discussion, Trump also brought up Greenland, Canada, and the Panama Canal, expressing interest in potentially making these countries part of the U.S. Some senators praised Trump’s approach to Canada, believing that his comments had already influenced the country’s behavior and may have played a role in the resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Overall, Trump’s one-bill approach to budget reconciliation is seen as a strategic move that could potentially streamline the legislative process and force lawmakers to make tough decisions. The Republican party appears to be aligning with Trump’s preference for a single bill, although they are keeping other options open. The meeting highlighted the importance of unity within the party and support for Trump’s agenda as they navigate complex issues such as taxes and border security.