Trump Signs Major Policy Bill into Law Amid Celebration at White House

 Trump Signs Major Policy Bill into Law Amid Celebration at White House

President Donald Trump has officially signed his flagship policy bill into law, just one day after it narrowly cleared Congress. The signing ceremony took place Friday afternoon at the White House, setting into motion major aspects of Trump’s legislative agenda—including expanded defense funding, sweeping tax reforms, and intensified immigration enforcement.

The signing event, which coincided with upcoming Independence Day festivities, featured a festive atmosphere. Attendees included military pilots who had recently participated in an airstrike targeting three nuclear sites in Iran.

Speaking to supporters from the White House South Lawn, Trump praised the bill as a catalyst for economic growth. Despite his optimism, public opinion remains divided, with polls indicating that many Americans remain wary—particularly about certain provisions. Even within his own Republican

party, several lawmakers voiced concern over the bill’s potential to increase the national debt. Democrats, meanwhile, argue it disproportionately benefits the wealthy at the expense of low-income citizens.

Key Features of the 870-Page Bill:

Extension of Trump’s 2017 tax cuts

Major reductions in Medicaid funding, impacting low-income and disabled Americans

New tax exemptions for tipped wages, overtime, and Social Security income

A $150 billion increase in defense spending

Cuts to clean energy tax incentives introduced during the Biden administration

Allocation of $100 billion to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

Before the signing, a military flyover featured two B-2 bombers—the same model used in the Iran strike—accompanied by advanced F-22 and F-35 fighter jets.

Trump used the occasion to thank Republican lawmakers who supported the bill and downplayed criticism of the bill’s cuts to social programs such as food aid and Medicaid. "It’s the biggest cut in spending, yet no one’s going to feel it," he claimed. "The people are happy."

He also emphasized the bill’s elimination of taxes on tips, overtime income, and Social Security benefits for seniors—policies he says will deliver meaningful relief to working Americans.

The bill’s passage followed a tense legislative process, with Trump and his allies engaging in intense lobbying to overcome Republican dissent. In the House, Democratic Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries delayed proceedings with a nearly nine-hour speech, calling the bill "a devastating blow to American healthcare." He highlighted personal stories from those worried about losing essential support.

Nevertheless, the House moved forward as soon as he concluded, and the bill passed narrowly—218 votes to 214—with only two Republicans breaking ranks to vote alongside all 212 Democrats. In the Senate, the vote was tied, requiring Vice President JD Vance to cast the deciding ballot.

A Legislative Victory With Political Risks

Shortly after the bill passed, Trump appeared at a rally in Des Moines, Iowa, launching the multi-year celebration of America’s 250th independence anniversary. "This is the greatest gift we could give America for her birthday," he told a cheering crowd.

While the White House is confident that the bill’s tax reductions will boost the economy, financial analysts remain skeptical. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projects an initial budget surplus, but warns of rising deficits in the following years. The Tax Policy Center reports that 60% of the tax benefits would go to individuals earning over $217,000 annually, leaving lower-income families with far less relief.

Among those bracing for the changes is Jordan, a 26-year-old father of two who relies on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). He and his wife receive about $700 monthly to feed their family. If those benefits are cut, Jordan says he’s prepared to take on another job: "I’ll do whatever it takes to keep my kids fed."

As America moves forward under the new legislation, many families like Jordan's are waiting to see just how deeply the changes will affect their everyday lives.