Congress

House and Senate Republicans Prepare for a Game of Reconciliation Hot Potato

Republicans are still saying they can produce a finished reconciliation bill in a matter of weeks. It won’t be so easy.

John Thune

Senate Majority Leader John Thune gives remarks to the media during a press conference with Senate Republican Leadership. Aaron Schwartz/Sipa USA via AP

By Ursula Perano and Daniella Diaz

February 27, 2025 04:57 PM

Republicans in the House and Senate have adopted their respective budgets. That was the easy part.

Finding a way to turn two budgets into a single reconciliation bill — or multiple reconciliation bills, if the Senate has its way — will be much tougher.

For now, the House’s approach is the path ahead. Senate Republicans have openly said they intend to take up the House’s budget resolution, which leaves runway for tax cuts, and then make changes as senators see fit.