House Republicans released amendments Wednesday night about their massive megabill, and a slew of name changes caught the eyes of critics, who likened the move to cult-like behavior.
The first page of the list of amendments included the following language: "Page 10, in the item relating to section 110115, strike 'MAGA' and insert 'Trump'."
The swap of "MAGA" for "Trump" appears to refer to House Republicans' proposal to include seed money to be posted to "MAGA accounts" for children. The idea came from Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX), and includes a pilot program to start the accounts with $1,000.
The newly unveiled change appears to edit "MAGA accounts" to "Trump accounts" for children.
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A Rules Committee vote was expected Wednesday night, followed by overnight floor action, according to Politico.
The rule change led to swift mockery on social media.
"An absolute cult," chided Democratic strategist Chris D. Jackson on X.Jake Sherman
"They are renaming the 'MAGA Accounts' ... 'Trump Accounts,'" remarked Jake Sherman of Punchbowl News, sharing a screenshot of the bill and about 10 of the proposed edits.
"For f---s sake," reacted Fred Wellman, host of the On Democracy Podcast.
Congressional reporter Jamie Dupree appeared equally stunned. "Almost 5 full pages of the GOP changes are nothing but striking the word 'MAGA' and inserting the word 'Trump.' (I'm not kidding)" wrote Dupree. Post
The anti-Trump group The Lincoln Project surmised on X, "Are House Republicans so embarrassed by this bill that they are finding anyway to place the blame on @realDonaldTrump?"
Adam Michel, director of tax policy studies at the Cato Institute, wrote, "Just when you thought it could get stupider than 'MAGA Account,' they've decided to rename it to... 'Trump Account,'" adding a face-palm emoji.
Scott Lincicome, also of the Cato Institute, echoed the sentiment. "Ugh. They could've at least made it one of those tortured acronyms, like 'Tax-free Reserve for Unborn Mighty Patriots' or something."
"The 'MAGA Account' proposal meant to create savings accounts for newborns is now called 'Trump Trusts,'" clarified Kadia Goba of Semafor.