Congressional Republicans Plan Second Big Beautiful Bill Amid Skepticism

President Donald Trump signed the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act' (H.R. 1) into law on July 4, 2025, extending the 2017 tax cuts permanently while including spending on defense and cuts to social programs such as Medicaid and food assistance. The bill has drawn criticism for increasing the national debt to potentially 130% of GDP and raising interest payments on the federal budget, with experts warning of significant economic and health impacts, including millions losing health insurance and increased mortality rates. Congressional Republicans are already discussing a possible second or third reconciliation bill, but fiscal hawks remain skeptical that further substantial spending cuts can be achieved. The legislation has been criticized as favoring wealthy corporations and high-income earners, while imposing stricter work-reporting requirements on social safety net programs that jeopardize coverage for vulnerable populations in states like Arizona. Additionally, new tax provisions have caused outrage among professional gamblers due to increased financial burdens. Critics also highlight environmental rollbacks and increased immigration enforcement fees, framing the bill as a shift toward plutocratic interests rather than a working-class agenda.