Top 4 Congressional Actions of 2025 and Their Impact on You

Bassyonni

ago 3 hours

The year 2025 was marked by significant Congressional actions under the Republican majority, particularly during President Donald Trump’s second term. These actions, which included substantial tax reforms and regulatory repeals, are set to influence many Americans. The Republican-led Congress faced internal challenges and a lack of bipartisan cooperation, resulting in a notable 43-day government shutdown last fall.

Top 4 Congressional Actions of 2025 and Their Impact on You

1. Permanent Extension of Trump Tax Cuts

One of the standout achievements was the permanent extension of the Trump tax cuts, originally enacted in 2017. This legislation, often referred to as the “big, beautiful bill” by Trump, received unanimous Republican support and was signed into law on July 4. This move promises to reduce taxes by approximately $4.5 trillion over the next decade, according to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).

Tax benefits will be distributed across all income levels.
Additional provisions include tax deductions for tipped workers and seniors.
The legislation has faced criticism for disproportionately benefiting the wealthiest Americans.

2. A Record $1 Trillion Military Budget

The new tax law incorporates a substantial allocation of $150 billion for the Pentagon. Combined with existing funding, the U.S. military budget exceeds $1 trillion for the first time. This milestone reflects a significant commitment to national defense.

3. Immigration Enforcement Spending

The legislation also establishes over $170 billion for immigration enforcement initiatives. It aims to expand the capabilities of ICE and support mass deportation efforts, aligning with prominent elements of Trump’s policy agenda. Critics have on the other hand pointed at Medicaid cuts totaling $1 trillion and limitations on clean energy funding.

4. Record Regulatory Repeals

Utilizing the Congressional Review Act (CRA), Congress has moved swiftly to repeal 22 federal regulations established during the Biden administration. This number surpasses the previous total of 20 regulations repealed in the CRA’s entire history. The CRA allows these measures to bypass traditional Senate filibuster rules, enabling Republicans to implement these changes even with limited opposition.

5. Impact on Senate Procedures

Republican leaders made pivotal changes to reduce the minority’s legislative power in the Senate. In September, they invoked the “nuclear option” to allow en bloc confirmations of executive branch nominations. This year, they confirmed a total of 145 nominees, streamlining the appointment process significantly.

Overall, the actions taken by Congress in 2025 reflect a robust Republican strategy aimed at promoting tax reform, defense spending, and regulatory repeal, while facing internal strife and external criticism. These developments will have far-reaching effects on the American populace, shaping the political landscape and fiscal environment for years to come.