House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) defended President Donald Trump’s “One Big, Beautiful Bill” on Sunday, countering Senator Rand Paul’s (R-KY) warnings that the legislation would significantly increase the national debt. Johnson emphasized the bill’s $1.5 trillion in spending cuts, describing it as the most substantial reduction in over 30 years. He acknowledged the national debt as a serious issue but argued that the bill represents a significant step toward fiscal responsibility.
Johnson addressed concerns about the bill’s proposed $4–5 trillion debt ceiling increase, stating that it is a necessary measure to prevent a default on U.S. obligations. He clarified that raising the debt ceiling does not equate to new spending but signals to creditors that Congress is committed to fiscal stability. Johnson noted that President Trump supports this approach, emphasizing the importance of maintaining economic confidence.
Senator Paul criticized the bill’s spending cuts as insufficient and expressed concern over the projected $3.1 trillion addition to the national deficit over the next decade. He proposed a short-term debt ceiling increase of $500 billion to enforce more stringent fiscal discipline.
The bill, which narrowly passed the House, includes extensions of the 2017 tax cuts, increased defense spending, and reforms aimed at bolstering border security and energy production. As it moves to the Senate, the bill faces opposition from both fiscal conservatives and moderates concerned about specific provisions, including changes to Medicaid.
