Trump tax cuts preserved while SALT deduction cap raised in contentious 215-214 vote
The Senate’s response to the House passing its “big, beautiful bill” was starkly divided, with Democrats expressing concerns about the long-term impact on the working class, while Republicans argued that the bill would benefit that very group.
Senate Minority Whip Richard Durbin, D-Ill., criticized the Republicans’ reconciliation bill, accusing them of dismantling the American Dream and stripping away essential services like health care and food assistance from hardworking Americans. He lamented that the bill prioritized tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy over the needs of American families.
Durbin called on four Senate Republicans to break ranks with their party and join Democrats in opposing the bill. However, Senators Roger Marshall of Kansas and Lindsey Graham of South Carolina praised the House’s Speaker Mike Johnson for passing the bill, emphasizing its positive impact on America.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., condemned the late-night vote on the bill, accusing Republicans of trying to pass a “rotten to the core” legislation under the cover of darkness. He made several unsuccessful attempts to halt the proceedings as Republicans pushed forward with their agenda.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., defended the bill, stating that its goal was to improve the lives of Americans by making essentials like mortgage payments, gas, and groceries more affordable. Thune emphasized that the bill was part of a broader economic plan.
Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., echoed concerns about the bill’s impact on health care, stating that it would deprive millions of Americans of essential services. Sen. Ronald Wyden, D-Ore., criticized the bill as a “full-scale assault” on Americans’ health and safety, predicting dire consequences for vulnerable populations.
Maryland Democrat Angela Alsobrooks raised alarm about the bill’s proposed cuts to food stamps, calling it the largest in history. She criticized the GOP’s priorities, accusing them of favoring the wealthy over struggling Americans.
Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., joined the chorus of opposition to the bill, labeling it as terrible and urging his colleagues to reject it. Fellow Vermonter Bernie Sanders also voiced his opposition, decrying Republican leadership for prioritizing the billionaire class over average Americans.
In contrast, Sen. Katie Britt, R-Ala., expressed gratitude to Trump and Johnson for their efforts on the bill. Senate Judiciary Committee chairman Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, pledged to carefully review the House’s final product and ensure that it complies with Senate rules.
New Jersey Sen. Andy Kim warned constituents about the dangers of the bill, calling it one of the most perilous in history. Thune and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, are expected to make minor changes to the bill while maintaining its overall balance.
The Senate aims to finalize the bill and present it to Trump by Independence Day. The debate over the bill continues to rage on, highlighting the deep divisions between Democrats and Republicans on crucial issues affecting the American people.
