"Big Ugly Bill" Sparks Widespread Controversy as Senate Vote Approaches

Washington, D.C. — The Senate is set to vote on the highly contentious "Big Ugly Bill," officially titled the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, amid escalating criticism and intense partisan debate. The legislation, which narrowly passed the House on May 22, 2025, by a 215-214 margin, aims to reshape the U.S. tax code and federal spending priorities but faces mounting opposition for its projected $3.8 trillion deficit increase over the next decade.

The bill’s provisions include making permanent the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, expanding tax breaks for corporations and high earners, and introducing new savings mechanisms such as "Trump Accounts"—offering a $1,000 government-provided baby bonus and tax-free savings opportunities. It also proposes to make the alternative minimum tax (AMT) exemption permanent, cap itemized deductions for top earners, and introduce new deductions for charitable contributions and certain types of income like tips and overtime.

However, the bill’s proposed $700 billion in Medicaid cuts could strip health coverage from an estimated 8.6 million Americans, with additional reductions to food assistance, housing aid, and the Child Tax Credit. New York Governor Kathy Hochul has warned that the state stands to lose $13.5 billion in healthcare, $4.4 billion in housing aid, and $2.1 billion in food assistance if the bill becomes law.

The bill also targets green energy initiatives, slashing $500 billion in Inflation Reduction Act credits, including those for electric vehicles and residential energy efficiency. A controversial provision would restrict state and local regulation of artificial intelligence for a decade, raising concerns about federal overreach.

Senate Democrats, led by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, have forced an all-night reading of the bill to highlight its complexity and delay proceedings. Schumer has denounced the measure as a "disgraceful" giveaway to billionaires. Republican Senators Rand Paul and Mike Lee, along with business leaders like Elon Musk, have also criticized the bill for its fiscal irresponsibility. House Speaker Mike Johnson defends the legislation, arguing it will stimulate economic growth, while former President Donald Trump insists it is a "big, beautiful bill" vital for the nation’s future.

Public opinion remains strongly opposed, with major polls showing an average of 55% opposition. As the Senate debate continues, the bill’s fate hangs in the balance, with Republicans needing near-unanimous support to pass it before a final House vote by July 4. The outcome of this vote will have profound implications for American families, federal finances, and the nation’s energy and healthcare policies.