By Jerrod Zisser
EDITOR’S NOTE:
This article is part of my ongoing coverage of major developments in American politics. I’m committed to fact-based, clear reporting that helps people across the country understand what’s at stake.
WHAT HAPPENED
The House of Representatives has narrowly passed President Trump’s massive tax and spending bill by a vote of 218–214, sending the legislation directly to the White House for signature. The bill had already cleared the Senate earlier this month, and with no changes made in the House, the legislative process is complete.
The nearly 900-page bill slashes funding for critical programs including Medicaid, SNAP (food assistance), and disability benefits, while delivering large tax breaks to corporations and high-income earners.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) delivered an eight-hour marathon speech in a last-ditch effort to delay the vote, calling the process rushed and harmful to working Americans. Despite his historic protest, the bill passed with almost every Republican voting in favor.
WHY IT MATTERS
According to nonpartisan analysts, up to 11.8 million people could lose health coverage under the bill. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates the legislation will add nearly $2 trillion to the national debt over the next decade—raising concerns about the bill’s impact on the economy and future government spending.
The proposed cuts hit low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities the hardest, potentially increasing poverty, hunger, and medical bankruptcy rates.
Supporters argue the bill will create growth by reducing federal spending and cutting taxes for businesses. Critics call it a “reverse Robin Hood”—taking from those with the least to give to those with the most.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR
* President Trump is expected to sign the bill into law within days.
* Legal challenges and state-level opposition are already being discussed.
* Advocacy groups are preparing to fight the cuts in court and in upcoming elections.
* Several Senate Republicans who were uneasy about the cuts may face pressure back home.
BOTTOM LINE
This is one of the most consequential legislative victories of Trump’s presidency—and one that could reshape the American economy and safety net for decades to come. The impacts will be felt by millions of working families, even as corporate tax cuts move forward.
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