Mike Johnson passes budget framework amid tight vote

On April 10, 2025, the House of Representatives voted to approve a budget framework initiated by Senate Republicans. Speaker Mike Johnson, in a press conference with Senate Majority Leader John Thune, sought to persuade hardline conservatives to support a Senate framework lacking explicit guarantees for $1.5 trillion in spending cuts. The vote, originally planned for the previous evening, was delayed several times due to resistance from conservative deficit hawks within the GOP. Ultimately, the resolution passed with a narrow margin of 216-214, with only two Republicans voting against it alongside all Democrats. In the wake of the vote, Speaker Johnson expressed confidence in the commitment of House and Senate committees to collaborate as they prepare their parts of a reconciliation bill. The passing budget framework aims to remove spending while prioritizing fiscal conservatism, border security, and tax cut extensions from the Trump era. However, the plan includes deep cuts to nondefense spending, which many experts warn would be difficult to achieve without affecting programs like Medicaid. Republicans from swing districts are notably cautious about potential Medicaid cuts that could alienate their voter base. Despite passing this initial hurdle, Republicans face a challenging path ahead as they work to integrate the House and Senate budget frameworks. Johnson must balance the need for substantial cuts with the need to reassure moderate Republicans who may resist any plan perceived as detrimental to essential social services. With pressure mounting from both conservative factions within the party and external groups, Johnson's leadership will be tested as they move closer to drafting the final budget. Failing to advance a budget aligned with their core policy objectives could jeopardize Republicans’ chances in the upcoming midterm elections. There is general apprehension within the party about losing control of either chamber of Congress. Johnson is aware that his ability to keep his caucus unified is critical for the success of this budget process and his own position as Speaker. This evolving situation highlights the ongoing tensions within the Republican Party, as they tackle issues of spending and fiscal responsibility against the backdrop of their broader political aims.