KEY SUMMARY: GOP senators clash over a House spending bill, with critics blasting its lack of deep cuts and ballooning deficit, setting up a fierce Senate showdown.

Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) is voicing strong opposition to the House-passed reconciliation bill, often referred to as Trump’s “big, beautiful bill”. Johnson argues the legislation will increase the deficit, contradicting its stated goal of fiscal responsibility.

The Titanic of Spending Cuts

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10

Speaking on CNN, Johnson said the bill does not address spending cuts seriously, calling it “the Titanic” during a recent event. He also criticized the rush to meet deadlines set by House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) ahead of the Memorial Day holiday.

🚨 MAGA IN DISARRAY🚨

RECONCILIATION BILL DEAD ON ARRIVAL IN SENATE.

Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI) says the Big Beautiful Bill is immoral, will bankrupt America, and he has the votes to derail it in the Senate.pic.twitter.com/I5yddx1Vxv

— Maine (@TheMaineWonk) May 25, 2025

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE THE DUPREE REPORT

Why it matters

The bill, which extends Trump-era tax cuts and includes other GOP priorities, is now heading to the Senate, where deeper scrutiny and possible amendments await. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates the legislation will add $3.8 trillion to the deficit between 2026 and 2034—a figure Ron Johnson and other GOP senators say is unacceptable.

Key critiques

• Ron Johnson is pushing for pre-pandemic spending levels, saying excessive spending threatens the nation’s fiscal future.
• He labeled the House bill as insufficient, identifying its lack of meaningful spending reductions as a major issue.
• Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) echoed concerns, calling the spending cuts “wimpy and anemic” on Fox News.
• Concerns over Medicaid work requirements in the bill have also been raised by Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.).

House Speaker defends the bill

Mike Johnson, also appearing on CNN, dismissed the CBO’s deficit predictions, arguing they don’t reflect potential economic growth generated by the bill’s policies. He acknowledged differences within the GOP but emphasized the challenges of gathering votes under tight timelines.

The numbers game

The bill narrowly passed in the House with two GOP lawmakers voting against it and one voting “present.” In the Senate, Ron Johnson believes there are “enough” Republicans who share his concerns to halt the process until more substantial spending cuts are included.

While some GOP senators are critical, others see the bill as a step forward. Rand Paul stated he would still support it despite its flaws if it didn’t explode the debt.

What’s next

The bill now faces intense scrutiny in the Senate, where amendments are likely. Johnson has vowed to push for changes that prioritize deficit reduction and responsible budgeting, potentially setting up a showdown within the GOP.

The debate over spending policy and fiscal responsibility highlights broader divides in the Republican Party as they balance economic priorities with voter expectations.

The reconciliation bill’s fate remains uncertain as GOP senators express concerns about its lack of meaningful spending cuts and potential to increase the deficit. With bipartisan pressure mounting, significant revisions may be needed to secure passage in the Senate.

We want to hear from you!

Do you support the current version of the reconciliation bill? Share your thoughts and join the conversation. Follow The Dupree Report On WhatsApp here.

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10