Senate Majority Leader John Thune announced on Monday that senators will remain in Washington, D.C., until they successfully pass what he termed President Donald Trump’s “big, beautiful bill.”
“Senators return to Washington today and we will remain here until this bill is passed,” he stated in an op-ed published on Finance Newso News.
His remarks reflect the mounting pressure Thune faces to convince Republican dissenters who remain opposed to the substantial piece of legislation as a self-imposed July 4 deadline approaches.
Thune expressed optimism that the Senate would successfully pass the bill “across the finish line.”
With Congress expected to go on recess during the week of July 4, lawmakers have effectively one week left to secure the package and send it to Trump’s desk.
However, as the deadline draws near, Thune is encountering resistance from some members of his party, particularly a faction of fiscal conservatives concerned that the legislation will significantly increase the national debt.
Senator Ron Johnson, R-Wis., has been one of the critics, voicing concerns that the bill could lead to trillions in added national deficits.
“What we should be doing is bending the curve of deficits down. In this reconciliation process, we’re not even coming close,” Johnson stated during an appearance on Finance Newso’s “Squawk Box” earlier this month.
Despite opposition from various Republican legislators, Thune remains committed to adhering to the deadline.
Last week, he expressed hope that the Senate could take action on the bill by mid-week, according to a report by Politico published.
The White House has also consistently reinforced the July 4 timeline, with press secretary Karoline Leavitt urging, “It’s imperative the Senate returns this historic piece of legislation on July 4th!” in a social media post last week.
