Speaker Johnson Negotiates Compromise on Major Bill Ahead of Deadline

WASHINGTON — Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., is seeking to unify rival factions in the House to pass a major bill supporting President Donald Trump‘s agenda ahead of a self-imposed Memorial Day weekend deadline.

During a press conference on Wednesday, Johnson indicated that adjustments to the state and local tax (SALT) deduction and Medicaid work requirements could be part of the solution. “I am convinced that we’ll be able to adjust the dial, so to speak, so that we can come to an agreement that will meet the criteria that everybody has and that we can move this thing forward,” Johnson said.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., confirmed that the new Medicaid work requirements will take effect earlier than 2029. “We don’t have an exact date, but it’ll be sooner than what’s in the current bill,” Scalise said.

Some Republicans, including Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., believe this compromise could sway conservative hard-liners. However, many members of the Budget Committee have expressed skepticism regarding the bill’s spending cuts and SALT issues.

Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., remains a “no” on the budget, citing ongoing spending concerns. Meanwhile, Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, insists that the new Medicaid rules need immediate implementation.

Johnson’s effort to attract support faces challenges, as key Republicans representing swing districts express concerns over the Medicaid provisions, which may lead to significant insurance losses, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

Rep. David Valadao, R-Calif., with a high percentage of Medicaid recipients in his district, stated he is undecided about the proposed changes. Similarly, Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska said he is “amenable” to advancing the Medicaid provisions sooner.

Democratic spokesperson Justin Chermol criticized the proposed cuts to Medicaid, arguing they could cause suffering among vulnerable populations. Meanwhile, some conservatives worry about providing SALT relief to high-tax blue states.

Johnson continues to negotiate with different factions, as all members eye the critical issues heading into next week’s votes.