

The Big, Beautiful Bust
7 snips Jun 11, 2025
Political analyst Abby Livingston joins Leigh Ann Caldwell to untangle the G.O.P.'s major internal strife over the Big Beautiful Bill, likening it to the tumult of Obamacare. They discuss the implications of the Musk-Trump fallout and which Republicans might benefit from the rift. The conversation dives into Medicaid bill impacts and the precarious balance of loyalty among party members. Finally, they examine the evolving landscape of political donations, spotlighting the waning influence of Musk and the power of key donors.
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GOP's "Big Beautiful Bust" Insight
- The "big, beautiful bill" is deeply unpopular with many Republicans despite being essential legislation.
- It's the most frustrating GOP bill since Obamacare in 2010 due to tough compromises and internal conflicts.
Republican Divides on Bill's Issues
- Republicans are torn by geographic and fiscal divides, especially over the SALT deduction and deficit concerns.
- Members from blue states face political risks for supporting the bill, impacting the whole GOP caucus.
Trump World Dominates GOP
- Trump dominates GOP decision-making, overriding logic or policy concerns.
- "Back to Trump world" means loyalty to Trump trumps traditional political calculations.