Senate Voting Underway as Trump Pushes for Passage of Economic Bill

President Trump is intensifying efforts to secure passage of his major tax and spending bill as the Senate initiates voting on amendments. With an Independence Day deadline looming, the stakes are high for the president's agenda. However, the Republican majority faces potential hurdles due to dissent within its ranks.

Four defections among Republicans could endanger the bill's chances, and two senators have already pledged to oppose it due to cuts in vital programs. Moreover, several others remain undecided. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office has indicated that the legislation could increase the national debt by as much as $3.3 trillion within a decade. The bill proposes considerable investments in border security and military enhancement, while offering major tax reductions and significant cuts to essential safety-net services like Medicaid and food assistance. If the Senate approves the bill, it will proceed to the House of Representatives for further deliberation, and ultimately to the president's desk to gain formal approval.