Congress Passes Divisive Tax and Medicaid Cuts Bill

The 'Big Beautiful Bill,' central to President Trump's agenda, narrowly passed both the Senate and House following partisan debate, last-minute amendments, and an 8.5-hour speech delay by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. The Senate passage was secured only after Vice President JD Vance cast a tie-breaking vote, highlighting the bill's divisiveness. The legislation delivers major tax cuts but enacts deep reductions to Medicaid and other social programs, with estimates that about 10 million Americans will lose health insurance, including significant numbers in Maryland and Rhode Island. Republican leaders and major corporations supported the bill, touting its benefits for families and businesses, while critics warned of increased deficits and disproportionate harm to low-income communities. Advocacy groups and healthcare professionals expressed concerns about the impact on rural hospitals and vulnerable populations. President Trump pressured hesitant GOP members and is expected to sign the bill, marking a major legislative victory and setting the stage for the administration's second-term priorities.