Washington, D.C. — July 4, 2025
President Donald Trump signed what he called the “one big, beautiful bill” during a festive Independence Day ceremony on the White House South Lawn Friday, solidifying a sweeping budget and tax package that Republicans are touting as the crown jewel of his second-term agenda.
The high-profile signing event featured patriotic fanfare including military families, music, and a dramatic B‑2 bomber flyover which were used in the Iran nuclear attack. First Lady Melania Trump joined the president in standing for the national anthem at the traditional White House picnic for service members and their families. The administration used the occasion to mark what it views as a major legislative milestone.
“We’re going to sign today one big, beautiful bill,” President Trump said, flanked by Republican leaders and military personnel.
“This is the most popular bill I’ve ever signed,” he added.
Among those standing beside the president were Senate Majority Leader John Thune and House Speaker Mike Johnson—both of whom were praised by Trump for uniting GOP lawmakers behind the package.
“They did an incredible job holding the conference together to get the bill over the finish line,” Trump said.
The legislation, officially named the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” combines large-scale tax cuts—including the elimination of federal taxes on tips and most Social Security benefits—with steep reductions in Medicaid and SNAP (food stamp) funding. It also dramatically increases funding for defense, border enforcement, and infrastructure.
Critics have warned of the bill’s potential consequences. According to estimates from the Congressional Budget Office, the legislation could increase the federal deficit by $3.3 to $3.4 trillion over the next decade. It could also lead to the loss of health coverage for over 10 million Americans.
Supporters, however, hailed it as a necessary and overdue shift.
The Social Security Administration issued a statement praising the measure, noting that it wileliminate federal taxes on benefits for “nearly 90% of recipients”—a change popular among senior citizens. Still, some analysts caution that the change is temporary unless extended by future legislation.
The ceremony’s timing—on the Fourth of July—was no coincidence. With the 250th anniversary of American independence on the horizon, the Trump administration is using the moment to highlight its vision of American renewal.
As the president signed the bill, a crowd of supporters cheered and waved flags, underscoring Trump’s enduring popularity among his base—and the political theater that continues to define his presidency.
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