Republican Boost: Trump's Tax-Cut and Border Agenda Advances

The U.S. House of Representatives, led by Republicans, voted 217-215 to advance Trump's tax-cut and border agenda, a pivotal move for his 2025 goals. Speaker Johnson maneuvered legislative tactics to gain support, with Trump personally urging members to back the $4.5 trillion plan involving tax cuts, border security, and military spending.

In a closely contested vote, the Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday advanced President Donald Trump's tax-cut and border agenda, marking a significant step towards his 2025 objectives. The vote passed 217-215, highlighting divisions within the party as no Democrats supported the move and one Republican opposed.

The passage followed a strategic play by House Speaker Mike Johnson, who initially halted a vote, citing insufficient support, only to reverse his decision later in the evening. Johnson, alongside No. 2 House Republican Steve Scalise, engaged in persuasive discussions with hesitant members to secure the measure's passage.

The $4.5 trillion plan aims to extend Trump's 2017 tax cuts and includes provisions for border security and military spending. Trump actively lobbied for the plan, reaching out to undecided Republicans to express the necessity of the legislation for his future policy agenda.

(With inputs from agencies.)