GOP Hardliners Block Key Trump Bill, Chaos Erupts in House Leadership

Washington, D.C. — President Donald Trump’s legislative agenda faced significant setbacks on May 15, 2025, when a group of Republican hardliners voted against his key bill in a crucial committee. This unexpected opposition embarrassed House Republican leaders and left Trump’s initiatives in disarray.

Speaker Mike Johnson and his team are tasked with addressing the concerns of dissenting Republicans over the weekend, aiming for a renewed vote as soon as Monday. However, winning over the right-wing members, who are demanding further spending cuts to Medicaid and federal clean energy programs, presents a formidable challenge.

During the House budget panel meeting, five Republicans voted against Trump’s extensive tax and spending cuts proposal. Those opposing votes came from Ralph Norman of South Carolina, Chip Roy of Texas, Josh Brecheen of Oklahoma, Andrew Clyde of Georgia, and Lloyd Smucker of Pennsylvania. The committee’s role limits substantial policy changes, but advancing the bill is essential for a full House vote.

Many Republicans were outraged by the dissenters, considering they had spent considerable time crafting the bill, which encompasses trillions in tax reductions and increased military funding, funded by alterations to federal health and nutrition programs and reductions in energy sector support. GOP Rep. Tom McClintock of California, who supported advancing the bill, stated, “These are people who promised their constituents not to raise their taxes. And those five no votes just voted for the biggest tax increase in American history.”

Negotiations are still active, with GOP hardliners intensifying their demands for immediate work requirements in Medicaid and larger cuts to clean energy tax benefits. Johnson must navigate these conflicts carefully to avoid upsetting moderate Republicans whose votes are also critical.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise revealed that they are in agreement on necessary changes, but timing remains an issue. Some requested changes, like work requirements for Medicaid, would not take effect until 2029. Scalise confirmed that Trump, who is currently returning from an overseas trip, is closely monitoring the bill’s progress.

Trump emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We don’t need ‘GRANDSTANDERS’ in the Republican Party. STOP TALKING, AND GET IT DONE!” He further urged Republicans to “UNITE behind, ‘THE ONE, BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL!’”

Another dissenting Republican, Clyde, expressed concerns regarding the bill’s stance on gun suppressors under the National Firearms Act, adding complexity to the final negotiations. House budget chief, Rep. Jodey Arrington, indicated that they could only afford to lose two votes within the committee, highlighting the precariousness of their position.

The situation is further complicated by logistical challenges, as evidenced by GOP leaders persuading Rep. Brandon Gill to return from a family matter for the vote, underscoring the tight margins Republicans are dealing with.