Senate Unveils Trump Bill, Cuts Medicaid, Raises Debt

Jun. 18, 2025, 5:19 pm ET

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  • The Senate’s version of President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” includes significant tax cuts and spending reductions.
  • The bill proposes steeper cuts to Medicaid funding and a $5 trillion increase in the debt ceiling.
  • Provisions to end taxes on tips, overtime, and auto loan interest are also included.

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Essential Context

The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” a cornerstone of President Trump’s second-term agenda, has undergone substantial changes in the Senate. The bill aims to implement record tax cuts, reduce spending, and enhance border and national security.

Core Players

  • President Trump – Proponent of the bill and current president.
  • Senate Majority Leader John Thune – Key figure in negotiating the bill’s terms.
  • House Speaker Mike Johnson – Urging minimal changes to the legislation to ensure passage.
  • Senate Republicans – Driving force behind the bill’s modifications.

Key Numbers

  • $5 trillion – Proposed increase in the debt ceiling.
  • $2,200 – Increased Child Tax Credit under the Senate bill.
  • $10,000 – Cap on tax deductions for auto loan interest.
  • 2028 – Expiration year for temporary tax exemptions on tips and overtime.

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The Catalyst

The Senate’s version of the bill was unveiled with significant changes, including deeper cuts to Medicaid funding by lowering provider taxes. This move is part of a broader effort to reduce spending and align with President Trump’s fiscal policies.

“We understand that it’s a negotiation,” said Senate Majority Leader John Thune, indicating a willingness to discuss and adjust the bill’s provisions.

Inside Forces

Internal dynamics within the Republican Party are crucial, as House Republicans from blue states have threatened to withhold support if certain caps are not raised. House Speaker Mike Johnson is urging minimal changes to ensure the bill’s passage with the narrow majority in the House.

The Senate version also includes permanent tax cuts enacted during Trump’s first term, a key priority for congressional Republicans and the White House.

Power Dynamics

The power to shape the bill lies with Senate Republicans, who are pushing for its passage by early July. However, the House must approve the changes, which could lead to further negotiations.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson are central figures in these negotiations, balancing the need for consensus within their party and the urgency of meeting the proposed deadline.

Outside Impact

The broader implications include potential economic effects from the tax cuts and spending reductions. The increase in the debt ceiling to $5 trillion could have long-term fiscal consequences.

The elimination of taxes on tips, overtime, and auto loan interest could benefit various sectors but may also impact government revenue.

Future Forces

The bill’s future hinges on the ability of Senate and House Republicans to reach a consensus. The proposed July 4 deadline adds pressure to the negotiations.

Key areas to watch include the final debt ceiling figure, the extent of Medicaid funding cuts, and the permanence of tax cuts.

  • Debt ceiling negotiations
  • Medicaid funding adjustments
  • Tax cut permanence
  • Border security funding

Data Points

  • June 17, 2025: Senate Republicans unveil the modified bill.
  • July 4, 2025: Proposed deadline for the bill’s passage.
  • $1 trillion: Difference between the Senate’s and House’s proposed debt ceiling increases.
  • 2028: Expiration year for temporary tax exemptions on tips and overtime.
  • 2029: Expiration year for tax deductions on auto loan interest.

The Senate’s version of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” represents a significant step in President Trump’s legislative agenda. As negotiations continue, the bill’s fate will depend on the ability of lawmakers to balance competing interests and meet the looming deadline.