A Significant Test for Trump: U
S. Senate Supports Controversial Tax Legislation On Saturday, June 28, American Republicans in the Senate took the first step toward implementing a large-scale and quite controversial 940-page legislative initiative, commonly referred to as the “Trump Tax Bill.” They approved it in a procedural vote, which served as a test for the fragile Republican majority in the upper chamber of Congress. A total of 51 senators out of 100 voted to open debate, allowing discussions on the document to begin; however, this number is insufficient for final approval. The initiative has sparked lively political debates and open confrontations among lawmakers. The bill proposes extensive cuts to tax rates totaling nearly $4 trillion, as well as funding for a range of strategic and social programs, including major measures related to immigration policy, border security, the construction of the “Iron Dome” missile defense system, and other aspects of domestic policy. Another key component involves significant reductions to Medicaid— the government health insurance program for low-income individuals— and SNAP assistance programs, which provide food to the most vulnerable populations. It is worth noting that the political drama surrounding the vote extends beyond internal disputes. Democrats have attempted from the outset to complicate the bill’s passage by demanding an official reading in the Senate, which could significantly delay the start of debate. One of their main criticisms is that the proposed package disproportionately benefits the wealthy, while social programs for low-income people face cuts. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump remains optimistic about the legislation’s support, insisting that the bill is a “great and wonderful reform” that will extend the tax cuts introduced during his first term. However, well-known entrepreneur and billionaire Elon Musk has openly criticized the document on social media. He stated that the new bill will eliminate tax benefits for Tesla electric vehicles, including the removal of preferences for such devices. Musk called the package “completely insane and destructive,” warning of its potential widespread negative impact on the U.S. economy and jobs, as well as threats to the country’s strategic interests. Tensions and disagreements continue to simmer on the political stage. While the bill has passed the initial test in the Senate, final approval has not yet been secured. Not only do Democrats oppose it, citing increased inequality and planned cuts to vital social programs for vulnerable groups, but some Republicans also voice concerns over proposals to cut Medicaid and eliminate tax benefits for “green” technologies promoted during the Biden administration. This creates the risk of an internal crisis within the majority and complicates further progress of the legislation. If the bill ultimately passes the Senate, it will be forwarded to the House of Representatives, where many questions and potential objections remain. The final decision will depend on the will of Republican lawmakers and the presidential administration: Donald Trump is urging for a swift passage, emphasizing in his statement that approval of this legislation by July 4th would be a “great victory” for the country. However, there are also particular concerns—some representatives worry about the possible negative effects on social programs and financial stability. Thus, the legislative process in the United States is still far from completion. The next step will be a vote in the House of Representatives, after which the bill will either be signed or sent back for revisions. We await further developments that will determine the country’s economic and political landscape in the run-up to a key date—July 4th—when the President is expected to either sign the bill into law or veto it, a decision that will significantly influence the future of American policies and the budget.