House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) credited President Donald Trump's "big beautiful bill" with creating a "unified government" that allowed the House and Senate to work together toward a common goal.
Democrats, however, were not at all unified behind the bill, due to SNAP and Medicaid cuts, as well as tax breaks for the wealthy. In a record-breaking 8-hour and 44-minute speech meant to delay the vote Thursday, Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) blasted the measure and called on Democrats to stay strong in their beliefs.
“Press on for the left behind,” he said. “Press on for the rule of law. Press on for the American way of life. Press on for democracy. We’re going to press on until victory is won."
During his victory lap, Johnson spoke of his "audacious timeline" to first move the bill by Memorial Day — which he bragged they beat by four days — and to ultimately pass the bill by July 4.
"We got this one done a day early," he proclaimed to cheers and applause.
When asked, "Why did you think this was possible?" Johnson replied, "It's a belief. We had a vision for what we wanted to do as a group. It's the great blessing of a unified government."
Johnson continued, "I believe in the people that are standing here behind me. I know their hearts...they will give their all for this country. I believed in the vision, I believe in this group, I believe in America."
Trump plans to sign the bill into law on the Fourth of July holiday.