Senate Nears Vote on GOP Megabill Amid Marathon Amendments

President Trump expressed cautious optimism about the passage of his tax and spending megabill, emphasizing its focus on homeland security and border protection, while acknowledging the challenge of meeting the July 4 deadline. Senate Majority Leader John Thune indicated progress in securing key votes, particularly from Sen. Lisa Murkowski, through negotiations addressing Medicaid and SNAP provisions, although final amendments, including those proposed by Sen. Amy Klobuchar, remain to be debated. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent highlighted the bill's momentum despite Democratic opposition, defending Medicaid work requirements and tax breaks aimed at working-class Americans. The Senate's vote-a-rama on the bill extended into a second day with no amendments passed yet, underscoring the tight margin GOP faces as they can afford to lose only three votes with Vice President JD Vance as the tie-breaker. Critics have raised concerns about Medicaid cuts, green energy tax subsidies, and the potential for increasing the federal deficit, while supporters argue the bill curtails waste and fraud in social programs. The legislation also includes measures limiting federal loan eligibility for certain low-value educational programs, aiming to balance cost savings with access to quality education.