Long Senate Voting Preparations on President Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill”; Republicans Aim to Pass by July 4 Despite Democrats’ Strategic Challenges

Long Senate Voting Preparations on President Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill”; Republicans Aim to Pass by July 4 Despite Democrats’ Strategic Challenges

Cuts in Healthcare and Food Aid; Increased Spending on Border, Defense, and Energy — Budget Deficit to Rise by $3.3 Trillion over 10 Years: Congressional Budget Office

[Washington, June 30, 2025]
Starting Monday, the U.S. Senate will begin a continuous, extended ‘voting marathon’ session for final discussions and voting on President Donald Trump’s largest second-term legislation, the “One Big, Beautiful Bill.”

After overnight debates on Sunday, the “vote-a-rama” begins Monday morning, where senators can propose numerous amendments and participate in multiple consecutive votes.

The bill provides for increased spending on border security, defense, and energy production, funded by cuts to healthcare and food assistance programs.

On Sunday, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) reported that this bill would increase the budget deficit by about $3.3 trillion over the next ten years.

Pressure to Pass by July 4: Final Senate Approval After House Passed the Bill
Last month, the House of Representatives narrowly approved the bill. Some changes are expected in the Senate, which would then require sending it back to the House for approval. Republicans aim to send the bill to President Trump’s desk by July 4.

The bill advanced in the Senate on Saturday night, with only two of the 53 Republican senators opposing it.

Senate leaders added several amendments and engaged in final negotiations with opponents.

Democrats employed a tactic of reading the entire bill aloud to slow down progress, taking about 16 hours. Afterwards, both parties can debate for up to 10 hours each.

‘Vote-a-rama’: Overnight Voting and Democrats’ Tactical Challenge
During the vote-a-rama, Democrats aim to clarify their opposition and force Republicans to publicly vote on controversial issues—especially ahead of the midterm elections.

The bill is being passed under budget reconciliation rules, which require only 51 votes to pass instead of the usual 60.

Due to Democrats’ minority status, their ability to block the bill is limited.

Vice President Vance’s Role Crucial if Votes Split
Currently, Republicans hold 53 seats, allowing them to lose up to three votes. If more votes are lost, Vice President J.D. Vance’s tie-breaking vote will be necessary.

Though Vance was present for Saturday night’s vote, his vote was not needed.

He met with Republican skeptics at Senate Majority Leader John Thune’s office. Pressure is also coming from the White House to ensure the bill’s passage.

Democrats’ Warning: This Bill Could Become a ‘Political Burden’
Democratic Senator Mark Warner said Sunday,
“This bill could become a political trap for Republicans.”

He added,
“Many of my Republican friends know they are walking a dangerous path. Now it remains to be seen if those who were personally hesitant will stand firm in their positions at the last moment.”