Donald Trump is expressing immense confidence in the sweeping tax and spending legislation that Republicans are attempting to push through Congress. Dubbed his “big, beautiful bill,” this measure is poised for a potential vote in the House of Representatives on Wednesday. Central to this legislation is the goal of making permanent the tax cuts established during Trump's first term. Additionally, the bill proposes creating new exemptions for tips, overtime, and car loan interest, alongside funding for mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.
In a bid to reduce the overall cost of the bill, Republicans are advocating for the largest cuts in history to Medicaid, a vital healthcare program for poor and disabled Americans, and to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Furthermore, the legislation includes provisions that would phase out tax incentives aimed at promoting the growth of clean energy technologies introduced under President Joe Biden.
The Guardian reached out to Trump supporters to gauge their reactions to the proposed bill. Kyle Hanson, a 41-year-old IT professional from Wisconsin, described the measure as “absolutely beautiful, critical, important, and responsible fiscal changes.” He criticized what he saw as an “overly bloated bureaucracy” and expressed gratitude for a politician willing to make necessary changes, even if they are not universally popular.
In New York, 60-year-old grandmother Dee expressed her belief that the legislation would significantly benefit the heavily taxed middle and lower classes. She stated, “This bill is a no-brainer! Americans first!”
However, not all who supported Trump in the past are on board with this legislation. Teddy Johnson, a 40-year-old from Phoenix, labeled the Medicaid cuts as detrimental, asserting that “they need to tax the wealthy.” A Pennsylvania resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, described the bill as a “scam to the American people,” arguing that it undermines programs crucial for poverty-stricken children while still increasing the national debt.
Others echoed sentiments of skepticism regarding the GOP's approach. An Oklahoman who voted for a third-party candidate characterized the bill as “a nightmare for now and future generations.” They suggested that raising taxes on the wealthy and corporations while lowering them for the poor and middle class could make the bill more equitable.
Steven K from Texas offered a stark criticism, viewing the legislation as a “slap in the face” to lifelong contributors to social programs. He accused Trump of using deceptive campaign promises about reducing the deficit as a means to gain votes.
Another dissenting voice, a 65-year-old Republican from Detroit, labeled the bill “fiscally irresponsible” and a “mess,” arguing that it increases the deficit and undermines the nation’s health and safety. They referred to the legislation as a “filthy giveaway” to the ultra-rich who are not contributing their fair share.
James Walker, a 63-year-old from North Carolina, proposed renaming the bill “the big bankruptcy bill,” arguing that it brings the United States closer to financial ruin. He emphasized the need for a legislative focus on paying down the national debt and improving the Department of Veterans Affairs, rather than pursuing policies that exacerbate the existing economic challenges.
Walker concluded with a poignant question, “How many times over do we need to destroy the world?” highlighting the urgent need for fiscal responsibility and long-term planning in government policies.
