Trump's Major Policy Bill Faces Senate Hurdle as Key Provisions Struck Down

Washington D.C. – President Donald Trump's ambitious "Big Beautiful Bill" has encountered a significant obstacle in the United States Senate. Earlier today, Senate parliamentarian Elizabeth McDonough announced that crucial "pay-fors"—provisions intended to offset the bill's costs—do not comply with established Senate rules. This ruling complicates the bill's path forward, as it requires only Republican votes to pass. CNN Congressional Correspondent Lauren Fox reported from the Capitol, highlighting the immediate challenge this presents to Republican efforts. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Missouri) commented on the parliamentarian's decision, indicating that overturning her ruling would be difficult. Republicans are now tasked with redrafting the bill to align with Senate rules, aiming to secure its passage by the July 4th deadline. This necessitates reaching an agreement with the parliamentarian, finalizing the bill text, and ensuring enough votes for approval in both the Senate and subsequently the House of Representatives, where Speaker Mike Johnson will need to rally his members. The tight timeline poses a considerable challenge for congressional leaders.