Steve Scalise U.S. House of Representatives from Louisiana's 1st district | Official U.S. House Headshot
Steve Scalise U.S. House of Representatives from Louisiana's 1st district | Official U.S. House Headshot
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise recently appeared on CNBC's Squawk Box to discuss the Republican Party's plans for a reconciliation bill. The proposed legislation aims to extend President Trump's tax cuts and prevent what is described as the largest tax hike in American history. Scalise emphasized that the bill would also focus on eliminating waste, maximizing energy investments in America, and reforming Medicaid to reduce fraud.
Discussing the collaboration with President Trump, Scalise stated: “There's a lot of good things in store. Every step of the way since President Trump was sworn in now in his second term, we've been working with them very closely on the things they're doing, clearly with what the DOGE is doing.” He highlighted legislative efforts to stimulate economic growth and lock in existing tax cuts to avoid a potential $4.5 trillion tax increase.
The bill will also include funding for border security enhancements. Scalise explained: “Build the wall. President Trump needs funding to build out the wall, to give more technology to our Border Patrol agents like drones, like night vision goggles, so they can better secure our border.”
Scalise addressed the need for unity among House Republicans due to narrow margins: “Yeah, and [the smaller margins are] what's so different about this year than 2017.” He mentioned ongoing discussions with members who have varying viewpoints but stressed the importance of consensus for passing one comprehensive bill.
On budgetary matters, Scalise noted significant savings being negotiated: “Yeah, those [numbers] are the things that are being negotiated. We're already all the way up to a trillion dollars and more in identified cuts and savings to taxpayers.” He discussed concerns over Medicaid expenditures involving illegal aliens receiving benefits they are not eligible for.
Addressing past administrative actions under Biden-Harris, Scalise criticized policies that increased government spending and contributed to inflation. He expressed optimism about current efforts led by DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) aimed at curbing unnecessary spending.
Scalise concluded by expressing confidence in achieving fiscal goals: “Elon Musk feels he can get up to a trillion dollars... There's a lot going on, but get used to it. This is how President Trump works.”
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