Things are looking rocky at the moment.
Senate Republicans are scrambling to unite behind President Trump’s bold legislative push ahead of the July 4 holiday — but internal rifts over spending cuts, tax policy, and entitlement reform are threatening to delay a major conservative victory.
Medicaid and SNAP Reforms Spark GOP Tensions
Several GOP senators are voicing concerns about proposed reforms to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). While the Trump administration insists no benefits will be cut, senators like Susan Collins and Josh Hawley are demanding more clarity from Senate leadership. A new Congressional Budget Office report warns millions could lose coverage due to tweaks in funding formulas — a flashpoint among older voters and working-class families.
Medicare Waste Crackdown Draws Mixed Reviews
Fiscal conservatives are pushing a plan to save over $200 billion by targeting fraud and abuse in Medicare Advantage. Backed by Sen. Bill Cassidy, the proposal aims to crack down on insurance company overbilling, known as “upcoding.” But critics warn the move could be seen as tampering with a popular program for seniors.
“This is not the time to start poking at Medicare,” said Sen. Josh Hawley. “Even if it’s labeled ‘waste,’ it’s a risky political move.”
GOP Budget Hawks Demand More Cuts and Accountability
Sen. Ron Johnson and Sen. Mike Lee are calling for deeper spending cuts and a return to pre-COVID budget levels, citing concerns over inflation, the national debt, and unchecked federal expansion. Johnson flat-out opposes raising the debt ceiling by $4 trillion — a move he says would cripple fiscal conservatives’ credibility.
“We must stop the spending madness,” said Johnson. “We’re on an unsustainable path.”
Trump Tax Cuts: Should They Be Permanent?
A major divide remains over whether to make President Trump’s business tax cuts permanent. Popular provisions like bonus depreciation and R&D expensing are set to phase out after 2029. Senate Republicans want to lock them in, but Trump’s advisors are considering using the expiration as future leverage.
“We made our case,” said Sen. Roger Marshall. “Now we wait to see if the president signs on.”
Military Concerns Over Spectrum Auction Plan
Senators with military ties, including Mike Rounds and Deb Fischer, are opposing a provision to auction off government-owned spectrum, warning it could interfere with Pentagon communications systems. They are demanding explicit protections until 2034.
“We can’t afford to gamble with national defense frequencies,” Rounds stated.
AI Regulation Fight Raises States’ Rights Questions
Language in the bill that would block states from regulating artificial intelligence for 10 years has triggered backlash from conservatives. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Sen. Hawley both slammed the provision, calling it a dangerous federal overreach that could harm job security and data privacy.
“This is a power grab,” Hawley warned. “States should have the right to protect their citizens.”
SALT Tax Deduction Deal Under Fire
Senate conservatives are rejecting a $40,000 cap on State and Local Tax (SALT) deductions, calling it a handout to blue-state elites. They want to roll it back to $10,000 or lower. Sen. Mike Lee labeled the deal “a giveaway to wealthy liberals.”
“We’re not here to subsidize high-tax states like New York or California,” Lee said.
Final Hurdles Before July 4 Vote
With just a slim majority in the Senate, President Trump’s America First legislative package hangs in the balance. Three GOP defections could tank the bill, forcing the party to regroup ahead of a crucial election year. The White House is engaged in backroom talks to secure final support — and avoid a political setback that could energize the left.