Former President Donald Trump praised the retirement announcement of Senator Thom Tillis, one of two Republicans who voted against advancing Trump’s “big, beautiful bill.” Trump posted on Truth Social, mocking Tillis and warning Republicans not to oppose him. Tillis, who won’t seek re-election in 2026, was vulnerable and faced backlash after voting against the bill due to Medicaid cuts and tax changes. He lamented the decline of bipartisanship in Washington, saying independent voices are “becoming an endangered species.”
Trump called Tillis a “grandstander” and said he’ll meet with primary challengers. The Senate passed the bill for debate 51–49, with only Tillis and Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) opposed. Trump allies like Sens. Ron Johnson and Rick Scott praised the measure as a step toward fiscal responsibility. Democrats, led by Sen. Chuck Schumer, criticized the bill as extreme and rushed. Trump wants the bill passed and on his desk by July 4, calling the vote a “great victory.”
