US Senate Advances Donald Trump's Economic Package for Debate with 51-49 Vote

Senate Republicans in the United States took a key step on Saturday (local time) towards passing President Donald Trump's proposed economic package, which includes tax cuts, spending reductions, and increased funding for deportation efforts. However, the final fate of the bill remains uncertain as more hurdles lie ahead.

In a closely watched vote late Saturday night, the Senate passed a procedural motion 51-49, allowing the chamber to begin debating the bill. US vice president JD Vance was present in case his vote was needed to break a tie. Two Republican senators joined all Democrats in voting against the motion.

President Trump, who has referred to the legislation as his 'big, beautiful bill,' wants it passed before July 4. He spent the day at his golf course in Virginia, while some Republican senators posted photos with him on social media.

The bill, nearly 940 pages long, was released late Friday night. Debate is expected to continue through the weekend, with multiple amendments and votes ahead. If the Senate passes the bill, it would return to the House of Representatives for a final vote before reaching Trump’s desk at White House.

Republicans, who currently hold a majority in both chambers, are pushing forward despite opposition from Democrats and some within their own party. Some GOP lawmakers have raised concerns about proposed cuts to programs such as Medicaid and food stamps, which are aimed at offsetting the costs of extending tax breaks worth around $3.8 trillion.

Earlier, the White House issued a statement saying it 'strongly supports passage' of the bill, calling it important for achieving the president’s goals. 'It’s time to get this legislation across the finish line,' said Senate Majority Leader John Thune.

Meanwhile, Elon Musk, a former Trump adviser, criticised the bill. 'The latest Senate draft bill will destroy millions of jobs in America and cause immense strategic harm to our country!' Musk said in a post, calling the package 'utterly insane and destructive.'