July 1, 2025
Washington, D.C. – Former U.S. President Donald Trump is once again dominating headlines as the Senate engages in a historic “vote-a-rama” over his proposed legislative package dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” This sweeping proposal includes permanent Trump-era tax cuts, major cuts to Medicaid and SNAP programs, border security funding, and a $5 trillion debt ceiling increase.
The Senate session, which has extended beyond 24 hours, is one of the most intense in recent legislative history, with over 45 amendments considered in a single night. Key moderate Republicans, including Senators Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski, attempted to protect rural healthcare through amendments, though most were ultimately rejected.
Trump initially set a July 4 deadline for passage but has hinted at a possible extension, stating, “It’s hard to do July 4,” though he continues to pressure lawmakers to move swiftly.
Trump vs. Elon Musk
In a dramatic turn, billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk has publicly opposed the bill, especially its removal of electric vehicle tax credits. Musk has threatened to fund primary challengers against Trump-backed GOP candidates and even floated the idea of forming a new political party—tentatively called the “America Party.”
Trump quickly fired back, threatening to pull federal contracts from Musk’s companies, including Tesla and SpaceX. He also mocked Musk in a public appearance, joking that he might “send him back to South Africa,” sparking further outrage and deepening their political rift.
Legal and Political Maneuvering
Meanwhile, Trump dropped a federal defamation lawsuit against Iowa pollster J. Ann Selzer and the Des Moines Register, only to refile it in an Iowa state court—part of a broader legal strategy involving multiple lawsuits against media outlets.
In another controversial move, a federal court is currently reviewing Trump’s attempt to invoke the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. Legal experts suggest the matter may soon reach the Supreme Court.
Earlier this year, Trump faced heavy criticism for dismissing at least 17 inspectors general across federal agencies, an action dubbed the “Friday night purge” by watchdog groups concerned about government oversight.
Public Reactions and Protests
On June 14, Trump celebrated his 79th birthday with a $25–$45 million military parade marking the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary. While intended as a patriotic display, the spectacle drew massive protests across the country, with critics likening the event to authoritarian shows of force.
What’s at Stake
| Trump’s Agenda | Potential Impact |
|---|---|
| Permanent tax cuts, border security, subsidy reductions | May add $3.3 trillion to the deficit and impact over 11 million Americans relying on Medicaid and food assistance |
| Assert dominance over political rivals and dissenters | Feud with Musk risks GOP fragmentation and could alter 2026 midterm dynamics |
| Push bold, high-profile national actions | Risk of backlash from both political opponents and moderates within his own party |
Looking Ahead
All eyes are now on whether Senator J.D. Vance will cast a tie-breaking vote to push Trump’s bill through the Senate. If passed, the bill will head to the House, where debates promise to be just as fierce.
The showdown between Trump and Musk is also expected to intensify, potentially reshaping the Republican political landscape—and possibly giving rise to new third-party conversations.
With court battles looming and public protests continuing, Trump’s high-stakes gamble in policy, politics, and personal vendettas will define the next phase of America’s political season.
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