On Tuesday afternoon, Vice President JD Vance announced, “The bill as amended is passed,” triggering applause from Senate Republicans, while Democrats expressed dismay, shaking their heads in disapproval.
The bill, fraught with disputes over deficit increases, social program cuts, and spending levels, posed significant challenges for Republicans. President Donald Trump admitted meeting his deadline for passage would be “very hard” due to stalled progress. Despite Senate Majority Leader John Thune’s efforts to unify the party, three Republicans—Susan Collins (Maine), Thom Tillis (North Carolina), and Rand Paul (Kentucky)—sided with Democrats in opposing the legislation.
After intense negotiations, Republican leaders secured the pivotal vote of Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski, who had hesitated due to concerns over Medicaid cuts impacting her state. Murkowski, visibly conflicted, described the process as “rushed” and driven by an “artificial timeline.” She called the preceding 24 hours “the most difficult and agonizing legislative period” of her career, expressing hope that the House would refine the bill further.
Her support resulted in a 50-50 Senate vote, with Vance casting the tie-breaking vote to pass the bill.
0 Comments
Leave Your Comment