Senate Marathon Vote on Trump's 'Big, Beautiful Bill' Nears End

The Senate floor buzzed with activity as lawmakers engaged in a marathon voting session on President Donald Trump's ambitious domestic policy bill. Dubbed "big, beautiful bill" by the president himself, the legislation encompasses sweeping tax cuts, increased funding for the Pentagon and border security, and proposed reductions in government safety-net programs like Medicaid. After a weekend of intense negotiations and delays, senators continued to offer amendments before a final Senate Vote.

A Record-Breaking Voting Session

The Senate's vote-a-rama on President Trump's bill set a new record for the most consecutive votes cast in a single session. Lawmakers surpassed the previous high of 44 votes during a budget resolution vote-a-rama in 2008, highlighting the intense back-and-forth as senators sought to shape the final version of the legislation.

During the marathon voting session, several amendments were adopted, reflecting the diverse viewpoints within the Senate. Republican Senator Joni Ernst of Iowa introduced an amendment barring federal funds from being used for unemployment benefits for individuals earning at least $1 million annually. Another amendment led by GOP Senator Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee removed language that would have prevented state and local governments from enacting their own artificial intelligence regulations for a decade.

Perhaps the most contentious amendment, which ultimately passed by voice vote, addressed Medicaid eligibility verification requirements. GOP Senator John Kennedy introduced the measure, arguing that it would prevent payments to deceased individuals who were still receiving benefits. Democratic Senator Ron Wyden supported the amendment, questioning why any senator would oppose it.

The Political Landscape and the Fourth of July Deadline

President Trump has set a firm deadline for Congress to deliver the bill to his desk by the Fourth of July holiday. This adds pressure on lawmakers to finalize their work, especially as the Senate still needs to vote on numerous remaining amendments before reaching a final passage.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune acknowledged the progress made during the voting session, stating that they are "close" to completing the process. However, he declined to specify the number of amendment votes left and emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the final timeline. With no set date for the final vote, the outcome remains in flux.

The Senate parliamentarian has played a crucial role in shaping the bill's content by ruling on procedural matters. For instance, a pared-back measure to restrict Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood was allowed to remain in the bill after GOP lawmakers revised the language to limit the funding block to one year instead of a decade. This maneuver aimed to circumvent procedural obstacles under the Senate's Byrd Rule.

As the voting session continues, senators face a complex balancing act between advancing President Trump's agenda and addressing concerns raised by both Democrats and moderate Republicans. The final outcome of this legislative battle will have significant implications for the nation's healthcare system, budget, and national security posture.