President-elect Donald Trump has called on House Republicans to focus on passing a single reconciliation package to achieve key legislative goals. House Speaker Mike Johnson relayed Trump’s request during a private meeting on Capitol Hill, emphasizing the importance of consolidating efforts.
Trump referred to the proposal as “one big beautiful bill,” suggesting it would simplify the legislative process while ensuring critical priorities are addressed comprehensively. The approach has sparked discussion among lawmakers about the best way to proceed.
Trump officially endorses the one-bill reconciliation strategy to pass his agenda. pic.twitter.com/tHufDcYbZv
— Sahil Kapur (@sahilkapur) January 6, 2025
Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD) proposed an alternative strategy to accelerate border security measures. Harris suggested that Congress could prioritize a smaller initial bill focused on securing the southern border and deporting criminal aliens. “The president needs some funds now,” Harris said in an interview, explaining that this could allow faster action on urgent matters.
The Washington Examiner: Johnson lays out ambitious timeline to pass reconciliation bill for Trump agenda https://t.co/sOz1tN435V
— John Wade (@LtJohnWade) January 6, 2025
Harris advocated leaving the broader package for later, allowing time for negotiations on complex policies. He said this phased approach could deliver immediate results while ensuring thorough deliberation on other priorities.
Rep. Mike Johnson tells House Republicans Trump wants them to pass a single reconciliation bill https://t.co/39lkIT9c66 via @nbcnews
— Jeff Angelo (@JeffAngeloRadio) January 6, 2025
However, Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO), chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, supports Trump’s single-bill strategy. Smith cited the GOP’s slim majority in the House as a key reason for pursuing a unified legislative effort.
Mike Johnson Reveals That Trump Wants A Single ‘Big Beautiful’ Reconciliation Bill https://t.co/6TRPagCLah via @OANN
— Danny Stommels (@StommelsDanny) January 6, 2025
Smith also noted that passing two reconciliation measures in one year has historically been challenging, suggesting that focusing on one comprehensive package would maximize the GOP’s chances of success.