Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives have approved a multi-trillion-dollar government spending bill, giving a significant boost to former President Donald Trump’s 2025 agenda. The measure passed with a tight 217-215 vote after an earlier attempt was delayed due to concerns over support.
House Speaker Mike Johnson faced a crucial test of leadership, as some Republicans pushed for stricter fiscal policies. The budget includes $4.5 trillion in tax cuts, offset in part by spending reductions but also likely adding to the national debt. Despite internal disagreements, only one Republican, Thomas Massie of Kentucky, opposed the bill, while all Democrats voted against it.
The budget proposes $2 trillion in spending cuts over a decade and allocates over $100 billion for immigration enforcement and military funding. It also seeks to extend tax cuts from Trump’s first term, which are set to expire.
Before becoming law, the plan must be reconciled with a separate Senate budget through a negotiation process. Even if both chambers reach an agreement, further discussions will be needed to finalize the details.
House Republican leaders worked to secure support, with Trump personally urging some hesitant lawmakers to back the bill. Speaker Johnson emphasized the party’s commitment to advancing Trump’s agenda, stating, “We have a lot of hard work ahead, but we will deliver.”
Democrats criticized the budget as favoring the wealthy and potentially harming low-income families who rely on government-funded healthcare programs. With Trump’s endorsement, the Senate is expected to face pressure to take action on the proposal.
