House Freedom Caucus Proposes Two-Part Reconciliation Plan

The House Freedom Caucus (HFC) has proposed a dual reconciliation strategy to prioritize border security in a standalone bill, which they believe should be fully funded before addressing other issues like taxes and spending. In a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson, they emphasized the urgency of securing the border and starting repatriations immediately, reflecting a consensus with Trump's advisors. This two-step approach, endorsed by incoming Senate Majority Leader John Thune, aims to sidestep a potential Democratic filibuster. However, the strategy has sparked division within the Republican party, with some members, including House Ways and Means Chairman Jason Smith, advocating for a consolidated approach in a single bill. Concerns have been raised about the feasibility of passing two reconciliation packages in one year due to the slim House majority. The HFC insists that the border security bill should be ready for consideration in January.