The U.S. Senate is in the midst of a lengthy voting session known as "vote-a-rama," as lawmakers work to finalize President Donald Trump’s ambitious "One Big Beautiful Bill." This marathon voting event has lawmakers submitting numerous amendments, with the clock ticking and no clear end in sight.
President Trump took to social media early Tuesday to emphasize the importance of passing the bill, warning that failure to do so could lead to the largest tax increase in history—up to 68%. He described the proposed legislation as a significant opportunity for tax cuts and border security, claiming it would create millions of jobs and enhance military and veterans’ benefits.
As the Senate continues to debate the bill, tensions are high. Republican leaders are trying to rally support while facing opposition from Democrats who are proposing their own amendments. The stakes are particularly high for GOP senators, who can only afford to lose three votes from their narrow majority. Already, Senators Thom Tillis of North Carolina and Rand Paul of Kentucky have expressed their opposition to the bill.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota stated that Republicans are working hard to find a way to reach a conclusion, but he warned that the voting could stretch into the early hours of the morning. If passed, the bill would enact Trump’s domestic tax and spending agenda, including an estimated $4.5 trillion in tax cuts.
The proposed legislation is controversial, with critics pointing out that it would roll back significant green energy tax credits, which could impact investments in wind and solar energy. Additionally, it includes substantial cuts to Medicaid and food assistance programs, making eligibility more stringent and altering how federal reimbursements are provided to states.
In an unexpected twist, billionaire Elon Musk criticized the bill on social media, labeling Republicans as the "PORKY PIG PARTY" for including a provision that would raise the national debt limit by $5 trillion. Trump responded sharply, defending his stance against electric vehicle mandates and suggesting that Musk’s business would struggle without government subsidies.
As the Senate debates this critical piece of legislation, the outcome remains uncertain. The bill’s passage could reshape significant aspects of U.S. tax and spending policy, making it a pivotal moment in current political discussions.