WASHINGTON, D.C. (USA) — President Donald Trump’s sweeping tax and spending package is now just one vote away from becoming law. After a dramatic all-night session on Capitol Hill, the House of Representatives kicked off final debate early Thursday morning. The legislation, officially dubbed the One Big Beautiful Bill, is expected to land on Trump’s desk within hours.
GOP Breaks Stalemate After Intense Overnight Pressure
Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson led an aggressive overnight effort to unite his party. Working the phones deep into the night, Johnson — with direct support from President Trump — convinced enough GOP holdouts to push the bill forward.
As a result, the House narrowly passed the motion to begin final debate at 3:30 a.m. ET in a 219–213 vote. Only one Republican, Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, voted against it, joining all Democrats in opposition.
President Trump Pushes for July 4 Signing Ceremony
Determined to sign the bill by Independence Day, Trump has publicly and privately pushed lawmakers to move fast. Speaker Johnson echoed that urgency in media appearances and posts on X.
“Today, we will deliver the One Big Beautiful Bill to the President’s desk,” Johnson declared. “The American people will finally get the relief they demand and deserve.”
What’s in the Bill: Tax Cuts and Spending Slashes
The legislation extends tax cuts first implemented during Trump’s first term. It also delivers steep reductions to social safety net programs, including Medicaid and SNAP food assistance. Additionally, it overhauls how renewable energy companies claim tax credits.
Democrats have strongly opposed the bill. They argue it rewards the wealthy while endangering vulnerable communities.
“The top 1% are salivating over an extra $300,000 a year,” said Rep. Gabe Amo, D-R.I. “Meanwhile, 17 million Americans will lose health insurance.”
Jeffries Delays Vote with Six-Hour “Magic Minute” Speech
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries responded with a lengthy floor speech that has already stretched over six hours. Using a House tradition called the “magic minute,” he aimed to stall the bill’s progress.
“This bill represents cruelty, chaos, and corruption,” Jeffries said, as he read personal stories from Americans who depend on Medicaid and food assistance.
Senate Narrowly Passed the Bill With VP Vance’s Tie-Breaker
Earlier this week, the Senate approved its version of the bill after Vice President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote. The Senate’s changes included even deeper social spending cuts and a $5 trillion increase to the national debt ceiling.
The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) warned the bill could add $3.4 trillion to the national debt over the next decade. However, the White House rejected the forecast, accusing the CBO of partisanship.
Republican Support Solidifies After Trump’s Direct Outreach
Trump summoned hesitant Republicans to the White House for high-level talks on Wednesday. Alongside Vice President Vance, he spent hours addressing concerns and securing votes.
“I think we’re there,” said Rep. Derek Schmidt, R-Kan. “The president wanted to sign this by July 4, and that’s looking likely now.”
Although a few members remain uncommitted, GOP leaders say they are confident they have the votes to pass it.
What’s Next: Final Remarks, Then House Vote
Once Jeffries yields the floor, Speaker Mike Johnson will deliver closing remarks. A final House vote will immediately follow.
If the bill passes, Trump is expected to sign it during a July 4 ceremony — a political win he’s been eager to claim.
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