Senate Republicans Support Debt Limit Hike in Tax Bill

Senate Republicans are increasingly open to including a debt ceiling increase in their party-line bill to support President Trump's agenda, a shift led by Senate Majority Leader John Thune. This change aligns the Senate's approach more closely with the House Republicans' budget blueprint, which proposes a $4 trillion debt limit hike. Discussions among GOP senators indicate a growing consensus on integrating the debt limit into a broader spending package, although some members still express concerns over associated spending cuts. House Speaker Mike Johnson noted that negotiations are progressing towards a unified plan, aiming for a legislative win to stabilize markets ahead of a potential economic downturn. However, divisions remain, particularly regarding cuts to Medicaid and other health programs, with a target to finalize the legislation by the end of May. The urgency is underscored by economists’ predictions of a potential fiscal crisis this summer if action is not taken soon.