Five House Republicans joined Democrats to block a budget bill promoted by former President Donald Trump as his “big, beautiful bill.” These lawmakers are demanding deeper cuts in federal spending before they will support the legislation.

This vote represents a significant setback for Trump’s domestic agenda and shows growing resistance within his own party. It marks the first major legislative defeat for Trump’s team this year, despite previous successes in pushing tight votes through Congress.

Trump called on Republican lawmakers to back the bill, urging them to stop grandstanding and get the job done. However, some members remain divided, wanting larger reductions to programs such as Medicaid, which offers health coverage for low-income Americans. Others are concerned that such cuts could hurt their voter base.

The five Republicans opposing the bill insist that Speaker Mike Johnson agree to further Medicaid cuts and the removal of green energy tax incentives introduced by Democrats. They argue the current bill does not sufficiently address the federal deficit or spending issues.

The legislation would continue many tax cuts introduced during Trump’s first term, including eliminating taxes on tips, a provision Trump promotes as beneficial to workers. Critics say the bill primarily helps wealthy individuals and deepens inequality.

Democrats strongly oppose the bill, calling for a reassessment of Medicaid cuts and reductions to the Affordable Care Act, which provides subsidized health insurance to millions. The proposed tax package is estimated to increase the federal deficit by $3.72 trillion over the next ten years, according to a bipartisan Congressional committee.

This budget setback highlights ongoing divisions within the Republican Party and raises questions about the future of Trump’s legislative influence.