House Republicans faced a tense moment as a procedural vote on President Donald Trump’s "Big Beautiful Bill" remained open longer than expected due to a handful of party members not voting. This situation unfolded early Thursday morning as the vote stalled late Wednesday, with five Republicans voting "no" and eight others yet to cast their votes.
President Trump expressed his frustration on Truth Social, calling out the Republicans who hesitated to support the bill. He emphasized the potential benefits of the legislation, stating it would lead to the "Largest Tax Cuts in History" and a thriving economy. He questioned the motives of the holdouts, saying, "What are the Republicans waiting for??? What are you trying to prove??? MAGA IS NOT HAPPY, AND IT’S COSTING YOU VOTES!!!"
The procedural vote is crucial as it allows lawmakers to debate the bill before it can be finalized and sent to the president. Republican leaders have been under pressure, as they can only afford to lose three votes in the House, where they hold a slim majority of 220-212.
Among the Republicans who voted against the procedural measure were Reps. Andrew Clyde, Brian Fitzpatrick, Keith Self, Victoria Spartz, and Thomas Massie, who changed his vote from "yes" to "no." Massie later explained that he felt the distinction between the rule vote and the final passage vote was not significant to most people.
Meanwhile, several Republicans, including Josh Brecheen, Tim Burchett, and Scott Perry, had not yet voted, adding to the uncertainty of the situation. Burchett, when asked about his vote, hinted that a resolution was close but did not commit to a decision.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, eager to capitalize on the momentum from the Senate’s passage of the bill the previous day, recalled lawmakers to Washington to push for a swift resolution. He expressed optimism, stating, "Everybody wants to get to yes."
The vote’s delay was a risky move for Republican leaders, who have struggled with this legislation throughout the year, often passing measures by narrow margins. The stakes are high as they aim to meet Trump’s deadline for a holiday finish to the legislative process. As the procedural vote remains open, all eyes are on the holdouts to see if they will ultimately support the bill.