In the House, two Republicans stood firm against the Big Beautiful Bill: Representatives Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Warren Davidson of Ohio. Both lawmakers, known for their fiscal conservatism, expressed alarm over the bill’s projected $3.3 trillion addition to the federal deficit over a decade
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The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” championed by President Donald Trump, has sparked heated debate in Congress, with some Republicans voting against the Big Beautiful Bill despite its narrow passage in the House on May 22, 2025. This sweeping legislation, aimed at reshaping taxes, immigration, and federal benefits, passed with a razor-thin 215-214-1 vote. While most Republicans rallied behind the bill, a small but vocal group broke ranks, citing concerns over its fiscal impact and policy provisions. This article dives into the latest developments, identifying which Republicans opposed the bill and why, based on the most recent information available as of June 29, 2025.
House Republicans Who Opposed the Bill
In the House, two Republicans stood firm against the Big Beautiful Bill: Representatives Thomas Massie of Kentucky and Warren Davidson of Ohio. Both lawmakers, known for their fiscal conservatism, expressed alarm over the bill’s projected $3.3 trillion addition to the federal deficit over a decade. Massie, a long-time skeptic of large-scale spending, took to social media to criticize the rushed process, arguing that the bill’s significant changes deserved more than a few hours of review. Davidson echoed this sentiment, stating, “Promising someone else will cut spending in the future does not cut spending.” Their votes reflect a commitment to fiscal restraint, even in the face of intense pressure from party leadership and Trump himself.
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Additionally, Representative Andy Harris of Maryland, chair of the House Freedom Caucus, voted “present,” effectively signaling hesitation without outright opposition. Two other Republicans, Andrew Garbarino of New York and David Schweikert of Arizona, did not vote, with Garbarino reportedly missing the vote due to being moments away from the House floor.
Senate Republicans Raising Concerns
As the Big Beautiful Bill moves to the Senate, opposition among Republicans continues to surface. On June 28, 2025, the Senate voted 51-49 to advance the bill for debate, but two Republicans, Senators Rand Paul of Kentucky and Thom Tillis of North Carolina, voted against the motion. Paul, a staunch fiscal conservative, blasted the bill for increasing the national debt by an estimated $5 trillion, calling it unsustainable. Tillis’s opposition stems from specific policy disagreements, though he has not detailed them publicly. Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin initially voted no but switched at the last minute, avoiding the need for Vice President J.D. Vance to cast a tie-breaking vote. These defections highlight ongoing Republican divisions as the Senate considers amendments.
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Key Point Summary
- House Vote: Passed 215-214-1 on May 22, 2025; Republicans Thomas Massie and Warren Davidson voted no, Andy Harris voted present.
- Senate Developments: Advanced 51-49 on June 28, 2025; Senators Rand Paul and Thom Tillis voted against moving forward.
- Main Concerns: Fiscal conservatives cite the bill’s $3.3-$5 trillion deficit impact and rushed legislative process.
Why the Opposition Matters
The Republicans who voted against the Big Beautiful Bill represent a broader tension within the party. Fiscal hawks like Massie, Davidson, and Paul prioritize reducing the national debt, clashing with Trump’s push for tax cuts and increased defense and border security spending. The bill’s provisions, including extended 2017 tax cuts, Medicaid work requirements, and cuts to clean energy incentives, have fueled debate. As the Senate debates changes, these dissenting voices could shape the final legislation, especially given the GOP’s slim 53-47 Senate majority. Any further defections could jeopardize the bill’s passage, setting the stage for a contentious battle.
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What’s Next for the Bill?
The Senate’s ongoing deliberations, with a self-imposed July 4, 2025, deadline, will determine the bill’s fate. If amended, it must return to the House, where even minor changes could reignite opposition from Republicans like Massie or blue-state moderates demanding higher state and local tax deductions. The narrow margins in both chambers underscore the high stakes. For now, the Republicans who voted against the Big Beautiful Bill have sent a clear message: fiscal responsibility remains a priority for some, even in Trump’s GOP.
Stay informed on the Senate’s progress and how these Republican dissenters influence the final outcome. Follow updates on social media platforms like X for real-time reactions and share your thoughts on this landmark legislation.
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