By Elliot Hartman | The Maple Times
In a tight 51–49 procedural vote, the U.S. Senate this weekend advanced the controversial One Big Beautiful Bill Act—a sweeping reconciliation package built around former President Trump’s policy agenda. Key provisions include permanent extension of the 2017 tax cuts, cuts to Medicaid and green-energy incentives, a $5 trillion increase in the debt ceiling, and funding boosts for immigration enforcement and defense.
Why It Matters
The legislation could reshape social safety nets—an estimated 10.9 million Americans could lose health coverage—and skyrocket the deficit by an estimated $2.4 trillion–$2.8 trillion by 2034, per the Congressional Budget Office.
Senators Thom Tillis and Rand Paul broke ranks, citing concerns over Medicaid cuts and fiscal impact.
In Their Words
Elon Musk slammed the bill on X, calling it “utterly insane and destructive,” warning it could “destroy millions of jobs in America”.
What’s Next
The bill now heads into detailed debate featuring up to 20 hours of discussion and potential amendments, with a final vote expected by Monday. If approved, it returns to the House before heading to the President’s desk
