In a dramatic turn of events, the U.S. Senate has narrowly approved President Trump’s controversial spending bill, a decision that could have far-reaching implications for millions of Americans. The vote, which ended in a deadlock at 50-50, was ultimately decided by Vice President JD Vance, who cast the tiebreaking vote, allowing the bill to pass amid fierce opposition from both Democrats and dissenting Republicans.

Dubbed the “big beautiful bill,” this legislation is set to add trillions to the national debt while slashing critical funding for health care and food assistance programs. The overnight session in the Senate was marked by intense debate and a flurry of last-minute amendments, highlighting the deep divisions within the Republican party itself. Even with a Senate majority, the GOP faced significant pushback, leading to the unprecedented need for a tiebreaker.

Critics, including prominent figures like Senator Bernie Sanders and billionaire Elon Musk, have condemned the bill as a dangerous misstep that could devastate healthcare access for nearly 12 million Americans. Musk, once a staunch ally of Trump, has openly criticized the legislation, warning it could lead to mass job losses and strategic harm to the nation. He has vowed to support efforts to defeat Republicans who backed the bill, indicating a potential rift within the party.

As the bill heads back to the House, where Speaker Mike Johnson has cautioned against significant alterations, the urgency of this legislation looms large. President Trump, currently in Florida, has hailed the Senate’s decision as monumental, but the path ahead remains fraught with tension and uncertainty. With a July 4 deadline for final approval, all eyes are now on the House as this contentious debate continues to unfold.