House Republicans have taken a significant step toward passing their substantial domestic policy bill, which is now set for a full vote on the House floor. The bill, referred to as the ‘big, beautiful bill,’ passed a key procedural hurdle with overwhelming GOP support, marking the first major advancement in the legislative process. The 217-21, vote highlights the unity within the party, with only Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky opposing the measure. This vote comes as Speaker Mike Johnson seeks to meet a Memorial Day deadline to pass the legislation, which is critical for his plans as he continues to manage the Republican-controlled House.
The procedural vote was the result of intense behind-the-scenes negotiations, including interactions between GOP leaders and former President Donald Trump. Trump’s recent visits to Capitol Hill and an Oval Office meeting with GOP leaders underscored the administration’s efforts to align with conservative Republicans on key provisions. The negotiations resulted in a 45-page amendment to the bill, which was adopted in the House Rules Committee. The amendment includes provisions tailored to address the concerns of Republican holdouts, such as moving the start date of Medicaid work requirements from 2029 to 2026 and adjusting the federal funding criteria for states that offer coverage to undocumented individuals.
Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), a vocal critic of the bill, has yet to commit to supporting it, indicating that the debate is not yet over. Roy’s comments during a floor session suggested that further negotiations are needed to finalize the bill. Meanwhile, Rep. Thomas Massie’s opposition highlights the ongoing ideological divisions within the party. Massie, known for his criticism of the bill, argued that the legislation is rushed and lacks the necessary depth, comparing it to the metaphor of ‘deck chairs on the Titanic.’
The bill’s passage has broader implications for the Republican agenda, particularly in shaping domestic policy. The amendments reflect the party’s strategy to balance the demands of both conservative and moderate factions to secure broader support. As the bill moves toward a full House vote, the focus will shift to how the final version is presented to the public and the potential impact on the party’s legislative goals. The upcoming vote will be a pivotal moment for the GOP’s ability to advance its domestic policy agenda in the current legislative session.