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In a recent closed-door session, Senate Republicans emerged with a somewhat ambiguous stance on the proposed tax cuts bill. Their discussions revealed a desire to modify cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), though clarity on how tax cuts and Medicaid adjustments would be structured remains elusive. Additionally, adjustments to the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction are on the table.
According to CNN’s Manu Raju on X:
GOP senators have concluded their meeting regarding Trump’s significant bill but indicated a lack of specifics on the structure of tax reforms and Medicaid reductions. Senator Boozman mentioned that modifications would be made to lessen the House’s SNAP cuts, potentially easing the burden on states. Furthermore, the SALT cap is likely to see a reduction.
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Republicans also signaled that the timetable for phasing out certain green energy tax credits would be adjusted, although they assert this will not dramatically affect the total cost of the legislation. The objective is to finalize the bill’s language by next week, with a floor vote anticipated for the week of June 23rd. Nevertheless, significant disagreements persist.
As we’ve noted here at PoliticusUSA, the Senate is unlikely to simply endorse the House’s bill. The Senate’s version will incorporate changes that diverge from the modifications recently passed by the House. While the House made some adjustments to align its legislation with the Senate’s reconciliation process, the Senate has yet to draft or reach consensus on its own bill.
Moderate House Republicans from New York have pledged to leverage all four of their votes to block the bill if Senate Republicans proceed to diminish the SALT deduction.
Should that occur, the bill’s prospects would be dim, forcing Republicans to restart negotiations as they confront an impending debt ceiling deadline.
With uncertainty in the air, there remains an opportunity for the American public to influence the outcome. This “Big Beautiful Bill” has not garnered much public support, and with a little push, it could very well be defeated.
What are your thoughts on the rift between House and Senate Republicans? Share your insights in the comments below.