**GOP-Led House Budget Committee Blocks Major Trump Legislation**

The Republican-majority House Budget Committee voted against a significant component of President Donald Trump’s legislative agenda on Friday, marking an embarrassing blow to Speaker Mike Johnson and GOP leaders. The committee voted 16-21, with five conservative Republicans joining all Democrats in opposing the multitrillion-dollar package, leaving its future uncertain. Representatives Chip Roy (Texas), Ralph Norman (South Carolina), Andrew Clyde (Georgia), Josh Brecheen (Oklahoma), and Lloyd Smucker (Pennsylvania) were the Republicans who voted "no."

Following the vote, Committee Chair Rep. Jodey Arrington adjourned the meeting and confirmed that further discussions would resume after the weekend. "Well, the 'nos' have it. The committee stands in recess," Arrington stated. He expressed gratitude for members' time and patience, and wished them safe travels. Negotiations with the Republican holdouts, seeking deeper spending cuts and raising concerns about the bill's impact on the U.S. deficit, are set to continue in the coming days.

The bill's rejection presents complications for Speaker Johnson, who aimed to pass it by Memorial Day. This setback came shortly after Trump urged Republicans via Truth Social to support the bill. "Republicans MUST UNITE behind, 'THE ONE, BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL!'" Trump wrote, emphasizing the need for GOP unity to rectify what he termed the “mess” created by Biden and Democrats.

Republican leaders acknowledge that the bill requires significant revisions to gain broader support. Discussions between House Majority Leader Steve Scalise and some Freedom Caucus members highlighted the internal GOP divisions. Rep. Chip Roy criticized the bill for increasing the deficit and demanded substantial reforms. Roy stressed that unless significant changes are made, he would not support the bill.

Across the aisle, Democratic Rep. Brendan Boyle noted the deep divisions within the Republican Party and affirmed that all Democratic members would oppose the proposal. Boyle condemned the bill as favorable to billionaires and indicated unified Democratic opposition.