Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’ at a crucial juncture
Al Jazeera19 hrs
GOP Tax Bill Halted in Committee as Five Republicans Vote No
Above: Chairman Rep. Jodey Arrington (R-TX) looks on during a markup hearing with the House Budget Committee on Capitol Hill on May 16, 2025. Image copyright: Anna Moneymaker/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
President Trump's One, Big, Beautiful Bill is a historic opportunity to deliver on conservative promises: permanent tax cuts, no taxes on tips or overtime, real border security, and protecting Medicaid from abuse. This is not the time for Republican infighting or performative grandstanding. The GOP must unite now — stand with Trump, pass the bill, and give the American people the relief and security they voted for.
Democratic narrative
The GOP's latest tax bill is a brutal betrayal of working Americans. It would force over 10 million people off Medicaid, raise healthcare costs, and slash SNAP by $300 billion — hitting kids and families hardest. Rural hospitals would risk closure, and the bill even eliminates free IRS tax filing, all to fund permanent tax cuts for corporations, the ultra-rich, and Trump's political allies. It's a redistribution — upward.
Libertarian narrative
The current tax bill is a reckless giveaway that front-loads massive cuts for the wealthy while kicking the can down the road on spending reductions. That's not fiscal conservatism — it's cowardice. House leadership can't be trusted to hold the line, which is why the Freedom Caucus is using its leverage now. We need real, immediate spending cuts, including fast-tracked Medicaid work requirements. No more empty promises — get it done, or don't bother.
Narrative D
The current SALT cap proposal falls short for families in high-tax states. Raising it to just $30,000 doesn't cut it. Voters in states like New York, California, and New Jersey deserve relief. Republicans must fix this flaw or risk sinking the One Big Beautiful Bill over a preventable, regional misstep. Let's get SALT right — and get this bill passed.