McCarthy Comes To Trump’s Defense
“A Real Misstep That Could Cost Americans Big”
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) issued a scathing rebuke to fellow Republicans after a key budget vote failed, stalling President Donald J. Trump’s signature legislation, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB). The bill, which aims to revive the U.S. economy, lower taxes, and eliminate burdensome regulations, hit a wall in the House Budget Committee—blocked by just five GOP members.
“The stock market is climbing thanks to President Trump’s leadership. But today was a setback. A few Republicans chose self-interest over national interest,” McCarthy said on WABC’s Cats Roundtable radio show with John Catsimatidis.
🚨 Blocked by Five GOP Holdouts
Five self-proclaimed “fiscal hawks”—Reps. Chip Roy, Ralph Norman, Josh Brecheen, Andrew Clyde, and Lloyd Smucker—voted against passing the bill. The 16-21 vote delayed progress on a package that includes:
✅ Eliminating taxes on overtime pay and service tips
✅ Extending the Trump tax cuts for working families
✅ Requiring work for Medicaid eligibility for able-bodied adults
✅ Repealing Biden’s costly green energy tax credits
💬 McCarthy Sounds the Alarm
“If Congress follows Trump’s lead, the economy takes off. If they stall, Americans pay the price. We need to act now—before Memorial Day.”
McCarthy also took a veiled swipe at current Speaker Mike Johnson, hinting that President Trump has been forced to lead both the White House and the House.
“Trump’s doing the job of Speaker and President. Once he returns, I believe this bill will move forward.”
🧾 Smucker Backpedals, But Concerns Remain
Rep. Lloyd Smucker claimed his “no” vote was only procedural and intended to preserve future options. Still, conservatives nationwide are demanding action—not excuses.
⏰ What’s at Stake
The One Big Beautiful Bill is a cornerstone of Trump’s America First agenda, with major implications for:
- Middle-class families looking for tax relief
- Small business owners burdened by rising costs
- Retirees concerned about healthcare access and inflation
- Everyday workers hit by Biden-era economic policies
If passed, the bill could trigger a new wave of economic growth, restore stability, and stop tax increases dead in their tracks.
📅 Next Steps
The House Budget Committee will reconvene Sunday at 10 p.m., as Republicans face growing pressure to deliver for the American people.
“No more delays,” McCarthy warned. “If we don’t act, taxes go up. Trump promised no tax on tips—and it’s time to honor that promise.”
