President Donald Trump on Tuesday criticized Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., for opposing his “big, beautiful bill,” dismissing the senator’s position as politically naive and a failure to grasp the package’s long-term economic benefits. In a post on TRUTH Social, Trump accused Paul of having “very little understanding of the BBB, especially the tremendous GROWTH that is coming” and claimed the senator’s habit of voting “NO on everything” was detrimental to the agenda. Trump emphasized that the package, which he calls a “big WINNER,” would significantly boost economic development and cut federal debt, despite Paul and a group of four other Republican senators expressing apprehension about its fiscal implications.
Paul, along with Sens. Ron Johnson, Rick Scott, and Mike Lee, has raised concerns about the projected $5 trillion increase in federal debt tied to the bill, arguing that such a figure undermines long-term fiscal responsibility. Paul told Breitbart News that while he supports many aspects of the tax and spending package, he cannot reconcile himself to the debt increase, warning that it may damage the party’s credibility. He described the situation as a “hard place” for him, as he believes the bill includes critical tax cuts and spending reductions but disagrees with the way they are tied to the debt ceiling.
Paul also stated that the current administration, including President Biden, has continued many of the spending levels from the previous administration, leading to a deficit that could reach $3 trillion by 2026. He further warned that the debt increase would lead to long-term scrutiny of the GOP’s fiscal policies, questioning whether the party can maintain a strong position on budgetary responsibility if the debt ceiling is raised. While Paul supports Trump on foreign policy, he emphasized the need for Republicans to preserve their own principles in the face of growing fiscal challenges.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-South Dakota, has stated that GOP senators are “on track” to have the package approved by their July 4 deadline, but acknowledged the need for further negotiations. Thune highlighted the party’s focus on extending tax relief for Americans, strengthening borders, and investing in energy and national security. Meanwhile, Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., has been working to remove steep healthcare cuts from the House bill and has received guidance from Trump to consider closing the so-called carried interest tax loophole to generate additional revenue.
The political battle over the “big, beautiful bill” underscores a growing divide within the Republican Party, as some senators push for fiscal restraint while others prioritize economic growth and tax cuts. The debate has intensified as the Senate grapples with the potential impact of the bill on the nation’s fiscal trajectory and the party’s long-term viability in addressing economic and political challenges.