Republicans and White House Seek Consensus on Tax and Spending Bills

Key Republicans and the White House are trying to find common ground with the Freedom Caucus as they aim to bring tax and spending legislation to the floor on Wednesday.

Members of the Freedom Caucus left a meeting on Wednesday evening expressing optimism and a willingness to negotiate.

The White House, along with GOP leaders, is in discussions with Blue State Republicans about changes that would modify the state and local tax (SALT) credit limits. There’s also an agreement in place to introduce new Medicaid work requirements starting in 2026.

In a separate event, President Trump welcomed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa just a week after the U.S. accepted a group of South African refugees. Trump defended the administration’s program for resettling African refugees and mentioned that he planned to address “genocide” with Ramaphosa during their private meeting. This came amid a surprising video that sought to support claims made by white farmers facing persecution under Ramaphosa’s regime in South Africa. The two leaders were scheduled to have lunch and a bilateral discussion.

On a somber note, House Democrats saw a loss as Virginia Representative Jerry Connolly passed away on Wednesday morning following a brief battle with cancer. He was 75.

Stay tuned for updates on these unfolding stories throughout the day.