Senate Republicans Seek Votes for Trump's Domestic Policy Package Amid Key Changes

On Saturday, Senate Republicans were actively trying to garner the necessary votes to approve a substantial domestic policy package aligned with President Trump's agenda. After negotiating several agreements with hesitant party members, they aimed to expedite the bill's passage through the Senate, potentially as soon as this weekend.

The 940-page bill, released shortly after midnight, features important amendments that differ from the initial proposal put forth by the senators. Among these changes is the establishment of a $25 billion fund designed to support rural hospitals that are anticipated to face significant financial challenges due to upcoming Medicaid cuts. Additionally, the legislation proposes a quicker phaseout of tax credits available for wind and solar energy initiatives, as well as an increase in the cap on state and local tax deductions to satisfy demands from lawmakers in the House of Representatives.

Moreover, there were several localized adjustments made to appease vocal critics of the bill, particularly those associated with Alaska, represented by Senator Lisa Murkowski. Murkowski had previously expressed concerns that the proposed legislation could negatively impact her state. As Senate leaders strive to consolidate backing for the bill, their goal is to push it through swiftly to send it to the House for final ratification, adhering to the July 4 deadline set by President Trump. Initially intended for a vote on Saturday afternoon, the Senate remained in a state of delay, awaiting an official cost estimate of the legislation—an essential detail some Republican members were pressing for before proceeding.