House Republicans Advance Trump’s Tax Cuts Amid Conservative Demands

WASHINGTON — House Republicans have narrowly advanced President Donald Trump‘s controversial tax cuts package out of a key committee during a rare Sunday night vote. The decision comes as conservative holdouts demand quicker cuts to Medicaid and green energy programs before fully supporting the legislation.

Speaker Mike Johnson held discussions with Republican lawmakers ahead of the meeting and informed reporters that some changes had been agreed upon but did not provide specifics. He acknowledged the difficulties ahead as GOP leaders rush to meet a Memorial Day deadline to pass the package.

Initially, the Budget Committee struggled to advance the bill, facing objections from four conservative Republicans who eventually allowed the measure to move forward by voting “present.” The committee passed it with a narrow vote of 17-16.

Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, a member of the House Freedom Caucus, criticized the bill post-vote, stating, “The bill does not yet meet the moment. We can and must do better before we pass the final product.” This sentiment highlights the internal divisions as Johnson attempts to maintain his slim majority.

Debate centers around the bill’s new spending, which critics argue is front-loaded while cost-offset measures are back-loaded. Johnson aims to impose new work requirements for Medicaid participants as soon as possible, but the current proposal delays the implementation until 2029.

In an optimistic tone, Johnson said outside the hearing room, “There will be more details to iron out, but I’m looking forward to productive discussions over the next few days. I’m convinced we will finalize and pass this bill.” He aims for a House floor vote later this week.

The bill, labeled as “The One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act” by Republicans, seeks to extend Trump’s tax cuts from 2017 while adding new tax breaks. These include no taxes on tips and overtime pay, along with substantial increases in border security and defense spending. However, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget warns it could add about $3.3 trillion to the national debt over the next decade.

Opposition from Democrats remains strong. Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., condemned the measure, saying, “This spending bill is terrible, and I think the American people know that. There is a problem when balance comes on the back of working men and women. That’s what is happening here.”

Johnson faces pressure from multiple factions within his party. Stalwarts are calling for larger state and local tax deductions, spurring ongoing negotiations. If passed, the bill will proceed to the Senate, where further changes could complicate its chances.

As discussions continue, it’s evident that addressing the budget concerns while satisfying a divided party will remain a significant challenge for Johnson.