Trump-Backed Spending Bill Passes Narrowly in House Amid Controversy

On Tuesday, the US House of Representatives narrowly passed a controversial multi-trillion dollar spending bill, resulting in a 217-215 vote that supports President Donald Trump’s agenda for 2025. This initial victory for newly appointed House Speaker Mike Johnson highlighted intra-party tensions, as some Republicans sought more fiscal restraint amid plans for $4.5 trillion in tax cuts, which could exacerbate the national debt.

The legislation outlines a strategy for $2 trillion in spending cuts over the next decade, earmarking over $100 billion for immigration enforcement and military spending. Additionally, it seeks to extend tax breaks from Trump’s first term, due to expire soon. Despite all Democrats opposing the bill and only a single Republican, Thomas Massie, voting against it due to calls for sharper cuts, the proposal was passed with party support, albeit with hesitance from some members.

Speaker Johnson had to rally support after an initial delay, with the help of Trump himself reaching out to holdouts. Key Republican leaders emphasized the need for alignment within the party to pass the bill, which is seen as essential in advancing their policy agenda. However, the spending plan is still far from law, requiring reconciliation with a separate Senate proposal and further negotiations on key details.

Democrats condemned the bill, arguing it disproportionately favors the wealthy while jeopardizing essential programs like Medicaid for low-income families. Despite these criticisms, Trump’s endorsement will likely pressure the Senate to consider the proposed budget, which remains in a critical legislative phase.