Trump Leaves GOP Leaders Shocked

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) expressed surprise on Wednesday over President Trump’s endorsement of the House GOP’s approach to the ongoing budget negotiations, which has been a hot topic on Capitol Hill. Thune, speaking to reporters, said he didn’t expect Trump’s full support of the one-bill spending plan, especially given the disagreements between Senate and House Republicans on strategy.

Earlier that day, President Trump took to Truth Social to voice his approval of the GOP-controlled House’s one-bill strategy, praising both the House and Senate for working together as a unified force. However, Trump urged Senate Republicans to follow the House’s lead, warning against a piecemeal approach to advancing his America First agenda. He emphasized that the House’s plan fully aligns with his priorities, including securing the border, lowering taxes, strengthening the military, and ensuring America’s energy independence.

“House Resolution implements my FULL America First Agenda, EVERYTHING, not just parts of it!” Trump wrote, adding that both the House and Senate must pass the budget as part of a larger push to start the Reconciliation process and achieve these goals under the banner of a “one big beautiful bill.”

As negotiations continue, Vice President Mike Pence is meeting with Senate Republicans to discuss the White House’s stance. Despite these talks, Thune stressed that while Republicans in both chambers are aligned on overarching goals, there is still some disagreement over tactics. Thune remarked, “How we get there is still a point of discussion,” adding that differences of opinion are natural in a bicameral system.

Meanwhile, Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) reassured reporters that the Senate is staying on track with its two-bill strategy for advancing the budget. While House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), a close ally of Trump, remains committed to the one-bill approach, Thune emphasized that these tactical differences should not overshadow the common goal of advancing conservative priorities.

Thune’s comments reflect a larger division between the Senate and House over how best to pass a budget and implement Trump’s legislative agenda. While the Senate has focused on a two-part plan, the House has maintained a preference for a single, sweeping bill. Ultimately, both sides agree on the need to strengthen the military, secure the border, and reduce government waste, but the debate over how to accomplish these goals remains ongoing.