The US Congress has approved Donald Trump’s extensive tax and spending bill, marking a significant win for the president and his domestic policy. After a fierce legislative battle on Capitol Hill, the House of Representatives passed the bill with a narrow vote of 218 to 214 on Thursday. It had already been endorsed by the Senate on Tuesday by a single vote margin. The lawmakers managed to meet Trump’s deadline of having a final version of the bill ready to be signed into law on July 4th.
Though the Congressional Budget Office warned that this bill could lead to an increase of $3.3tn in federal deficits over the next decade and potentially leave millions without health coverage, the White House has challenged these projections. Speaking to reporters after the vote, Trump hailed the legislation as a boon for the country, and he is scheduled to sign it during a ceremony on July 4th.
Republicans are ecstatic about the bill’s approval, gathering on the House floor to chant in celebration. The House vote was initially delayed due to a record-breaking speech by Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who spoke for eight hours and 45 minutes to voice his opposition to the bill’s potential impact on poor Americans.
The bill covers an array of fiscal policies, including tax extensions and cuts for clean energy projects, with increased allocations for border security and military expenditures. However, Democrats are fiery in their criticism of the bill, characterizing it as detrimental to health care and food assistance programs while favoring tax cuts for the wealthy.
Key lawmakers who were earlier hesitant to support the bill, such as Representative Chip Roy, ultimately gave their backing, leading to the bill’s passage. Despite this support, only two Republicans voted against the bill, reflecting divisions within the party. Overall, the approval of this bill shows a triumph for Trump’s legislative priorities amid strong opposition and internal party disputes.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cddz3n6vz0go
