Tensions flared in the House Rules Committee on Tuesday as Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) fiercely criticized Republican lawmakers for backing President Donald Trump’s newly proposed federal budget, which passed the Senate earlier in the day following a dramatic 50-50 tie broken by Vice President JD Vance.
“I don’t really understand what it is that y’all plan to go back and tell your constituents,” Crockett said, addressing her GOP colleagues. “I’m glad that some of y’all decided to show up, but the reality is that you have sold your constituents out for 83 people in this country.”
The budget bill, which now heads back to the House for final approval of Senate amendments, has drawn fire from Democrats and policy experts alike for including provisions that are expected to disproportionately impact low-income Americans.
Among the most contentious elements of the bill is a requirement for Medicaid recipients to work a minimum of 80 hours per month to retain their benefits. In addition, the legislation proposes sweeping cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and other federal public assistance programs.
Experts warn these provisions could lead to catastrophic consequences for millions. A recent report by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that nearly 12 million Americans would lose health coverage under the bill’s current terms.
Crockett questioned the priorities behind the legislation, asking her colleagues how they could justify supporting a bill with such dire implications for everyday Americans.
“How is it that you can explain that we still are running up the credit card and we have nothing to show for it except for the fact that we won’t have food on the tables and we won’t have health care?” she said.
Public sentiment also appears to be turning against the measure. A Quinnipiac University poll conducted in late June revealed that 55% of Americans oppose the bill—a noticeable rise from a Pew Research poll conducted earlier in the month, which showed 49% opposition.
Despite mounting criticism, GOP lawmakers have maintained their support for the bill, framing it as a step toward fiscal responsibility. However, critics argue the budget prioritizes tax cuts and benefits for the wealthy over the needs of working-class and vulnerable populations.
As the legislation returns to the House, Democrats are expected to continue their push against its adoption. The debate sets the stage for a heated showdown in the coming days that could determine the direction of federal social programs for years to come.