President Donald Trump emphasized the importance of a House procedural vote on the “big beautiful bill” early Thursday, urging Republicans to fall in line. The vote had stalled the previous evening, with several GOP members refusing to participate. Trump highlighted the potential advantages of passing the bill, claiming it would bring about the largest tax cuts in history.
In a message, he questioned the hesitation of some Republican members, asking, “What are Republicans waiting for?” Some Senate Republicans had previously passed key test votes for the bill. As votes remained at a standstill, Trump expressed frustration at those who were not supporting it, calling their lack of action “rejecting votes.”
The procedural vote, which would allow lawmakers to discuss the bill before sending it to Trump’s desk for final approval, has been crucial. By Thursday morning, a handful of House Republicans had shifted their votes, with representatives like Andrew Clyde of Georgia and Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania changing their stance to support the bill.
Rep. Thomas Massie from Kentucky, who previously hesitated, explained his vote change by saying, “Because most of the world is not worried about the difference between rule-solving and final-passing votes.” Several other holdouts have yet to make a decision on their votes, including members from states like Oklahoma and Missouri.
After a late-night meeting, Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee remarked, “I think we’re just very close to something,” but he did not clarify how he might vote. Given the slim majority of 220-212, GOP leaders can only afford to lose a few votes, placing pressure on those who remain undecided to come to a consensus.
House Speaker Mike Johnson urged lawmakers back to Washington, emphasizing the need for unity to ensure the bill passes in the Senate. He expressed confidence, stating that “Everyone wants to get to ‘Yes’.” The current vote represents a significant challenge for Republicans, who have faced hurdles with the bill throughout the year.
This high-stakes gambit, involving an expansive 800-page bill, aims to satisfy Trump’s demand for completion by the holidays while navigating the narrow legislative majority.
