House Lawmakers Drive Through Storms for Trump Megabill Vote in DC

Severe thunderstorms in the Washington, D.C. area caused widespread flight cancellations, forcing numerous members of Congress to undertake long road trips to reach the capital in time to vote on President Donald Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill." Lawmakers from both parties, including Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC), who livestreamed her overnight van journey clad in pajamas, and Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), who drove 14 hours from Chicago, prioritized their presence for the crucial tax and spending legislation. The Senate narrowly passed the bill with Vice President JD Vance casting the tie-breaking vote, and the House prepared to debate and vote on it promptly to meet President Trump's July 4 deadline. The bill proposes significant tax cuts, Medicaid restrictions, and increased border enforcement funding, but faces opposition from some fiscal hawks and Democrats due to its cuts to social programs and clean energy initiatives. Despite travel disruptions, House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed hope for a timely vote by Wednesday or Thursday. The storm-related travel chaos highlighted the urgency and high stakes surrounding this major piece of legislation.