House GOP Extends Trump Tax Cuts, Slashes Safety Net Programs
On July 3, the U.S. House narrowly approved a sweeping $4.5 trillion tax and spending plan pushed by former President Trump. Backed by a 218–214 vote, the legislation extends and enhances Trump-era tax cuts, introduces new perks like deductions for tips, overtime pay, and senior benefits, and allocates $350 billion for national security and border enforcement. Meanwhile, it imposes significant cuts—roughly $1.2 trillion—to Medicaid and food-assistance programs through tighter work requirements.
Critics warn the Congressional Budget Office projects the measure will add about $3.3 trillion to the federal deficit and leave nearly 12 million people uninsured. Democratic leaders strongly opposed the bill, with one delivering an eight-hour floor speech condemning it as a threat to federal programs. Republicans defend the vote as keeping campaign promises and supporting national priorities, even as experts caution about potential consequences for low-income families and environmental needs. The bill is expected to reach the president’s desk around Independence Day for signing.
