Title: Mike Johnson Secures Major Win for Trump with Passage of Controversial "Big, Beautiful Bill"
In a significant legislative victory for President Trump, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Republican from Shreveport, announced the passage of the "One Big, Beautiful Bill" on Thursday. This sweeping bill aligns with Trump’s America First agenda, making the 2017 tax cuts permanent while enhancing defense and border security funding. The vote reflected a stark division along party lines in the Louisiana delegation; Johnson and fellow Republicans, including Majority Leader Steve Scalise, voted in favor, while Democratic Representatives Troy Carter and Cleo Fields opposed it.
Johnson proclaimed the bill will bolster the nation’s safety and prosperity, stating, “America’s ready for a rebirth and we’re going to deliver.” Scalise enthusiastically supported the bill during the debate, highlighting its potential benefits.
However, the bill has faced intense scrutiny due to significant cuts to safety net programs like Medicaid and SNAP, with estimates suggesting it could add $3.3 trillion to the national debt over the next decade. Critics, including Carter and Fields, condemned the legislation, labeling it as “catastrophic and cruel.” Fields expressed deep concern that the cuts could lead to hospital closures and severe consequences for vulnerable populations in Louisiana.
As Trump prepares to sign the bill during a July 4th ceremony at the White House, the future implications of this legislation loom large. “We have provided tax relief for the middle class and saved every American from a tax increase,” said Rep. Julia Letlow, hinting at her potential future political ambitions.
The passage of this bill marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing partisan struggle over fiscal policy and the future direction of the American economy.
Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him on Twitter @GregHilburn1.
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