WSJ Opinion: Potomac Watch
The GOP's Huddle on Its 'Big Beautiful Bill'
May 7, 2025
Kate Batchelder-Odell, an editorial board member at The Wall Street Journal, and Alicia Finley, a columnist at the same outlet, dive into the GOP's internal struggles over critical legislative reforms. They discuss the Republicans' attempts to tackle Medicaid and SNAP reforms, highlighting conflicting views among party members. The debate over tax provisions, particularly the SALT deduction, reveals deep divides. Amidst these challenges, the guests maintain a cautious optimism about possible resolutions in the works.
26:27
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Quick takeaways
- The GOP is advancing a reconciliation bill with significant components but is divided over Medicaid reform and tax implications.
- Republicans are aiming to reform SNAP by tightening work requirements for able-bodied adults to promote upward mobility and effective program management.
Deep dives
Progress on the GOP's Reconciliation Bill
Republicans are actively working towards passing a significant reconciliation bill aimed at extending the 2017 tax cuts along with other key measures. There has been notable progress, with eight out of eleven components of the bill advancing through House committees. However, significant hurdles remain, particularly regarding Medicaid, food stamps, and the tax aspects of the bill; these issues are highly contentious and continue to provoke division within the GOP. The party is grappling with concerns about the future structure of Medicaid and balancing the needs of various factions within its ranks, all while facing a looming deadline for legislative action.
