Senator Rand Paul (R-Ky.) has expressed confidence that “four of us” Republican senators are united in their opposition to the current form of President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” signaling a strong bloc determined to force modifications. His remarks indicate a significant internal challenge for the legislation.
The House-passed bill, which combines tax cuts with increased military and border spending and cuts to Medicaid, is moving through the reconciliation process, allowing for a simple majority vote in the Senate. However, Paul’s assertion of a four-senator bloc creates a substantial hurdle for the Republican leadership, given their narrow majority.
Paul and Senator Ron Johnson are at the forefront of this opposition, vocally criticizing the bill’s projected $3.8 trillion increase in the deficit over ten years, as estimated by the CBO. They are pushing for a leaner, more fiscally responsible version of the bill, potentially leading to major revisions.
The controversial Medicaid provisions, including new work requirements, are also a major flashpoint. Furthermore, the Byrd Rule could potentially strip out non-budgetary provisions related to AI regulations, judicial power, or Planned Parenthood, ensuring that the bill that ultimately reaches President Trump’s desk will be considerably different.