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Speaker Mike Johnson is forging ahead with a House vote this week on a multi-trillion-dollar budget resolution, a key test for President Donald Trump’s economic agenda. However, a group of conservative hardliners is threatening to derail the vote, citing concerns over insufficient spending cuts.
Conservatives Revolt Over Spending Cuts
Four Republican lawmakers—Reps. Victoria Spartz (IN), Tim Burchett (TN), Warren Davidson (OH), and Thomas Massie (KY)—have publicly opposed the budget, arguing it does not go far enough in reducing government spending.
“I am not voting for this,” said Davidson as he exited a closed-door GOP meeting.
Burchett also remained a firm “no”, saying he was concerned about Trump’s tax cuts not being permanent and the trillions in additional debt.
With Republicans holding a slim 218-215 majority, Johnson can only afford one GOP defection unless some members are absent. This means Trump may need to intervene to secure votes.
“I think President Trump may have to get involved,” said Rep. Ralph Norman (SC), adding that the former president’s support could sway hesitant lawmakers.
What’s in the Budget Resolution?
The House GOP budget plan includes:
✅ $4.5 trillion in tax cuts, extending Trump-era reductions
✅ $2 trillion in spending cuts, including Medicaid reductions
✅ $100 billion for immigration enforcement and military spending
✅ $880 billion in federal program cuts, some from Medicaid
Medicaid Cuts Spark Concern Among Moderate Republicans
While fiscal conservatives demand even deeper spending cuts, moderate Republicans in competitive districts worry about potential Medicaid reductions.
“The party agrees on work requirements for benefits,” said Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (NY). “But slashing hospital reimbursements is a non-starter.”
Rep. Juan Ciscomani (AZ), who initially raised concerns about Medicaid, signaled he may now support the bill after discussions with Johnson.
Democrats: Budget is a Giveaway to the Wealthy
Democrats are unified in opposition, framing the GOP budget as a tax cut for the rich at the expense of working families.
“This budget slashes Medicaid while handing out massive tax cuts to billionaires,” Democratic leaders warned.
They see parallels to 2018, when Republican tax cuts and healthcare debates helped Democrats win the House majority in the midterms.
What Happens Next?
🗳 Early Tuesday Afternoon: A procedural vote on the “rule” to advance the budget resolution. A simple majority is needed.
📌 Tuesday Evening: A final House vote could take place—if Johnson secures enough support.
🏛 Next Steps: If passed, the Senate must also approve it before committees craft a detailed bill for final votes.
If the measure fails, there is no fallback plan to extend Trump’s tax cuts, warns Rep. Jason Smith (MO).
“The Senate version will never pass the House,” Smith said, dismissing alternative budget proposals.
Will Trump’s Influence Save the Budget?
With GOP infighting threatening to sink the resolution, all eyes are on Trump. If he personally intervenes, he could sway rebellious Republicans—but if the vote fails, his economic agenda could take a major hit.
Will Johnson rally enough votes? Will Trump pressure lawmakers to fall in line? Stay tuned as the high-stakes budget battle unfolds.
