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Lawmakers Struggle Through 18-Hour Tax Bill Marathon

5/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In a grueling 18-hour House markup session on President Trump's tax and spending bill, lawmakers struggled to stay awake, with Rep. Blake Moore notably dozing off at 5 a.m. The fatigue and frustration of the marathon meeting ignited a wave of online outrage, underscoring the immense pressure Congress faces to push through this contentious legislation.

History

Historical Context

The recent 18-hour House markup session on President Trump's tax and spending bill echoes the contentious debates of the 1980s and 1990s, particularly during the passage of the Tax Reform Act of 1986. That era also saw lengthy negotiations and public outcry over tax policy, highlighting the enduring challenges Congress faces in balancing fiscal responsibility with public sentiment and political pressure.

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Story summary

In a grueling 18-hour House markup session on President Trump's tax and spending bill, lawmakers struggled to stay awake, with Rep. Blake Moore notably dozing off at 5 a.m. The fatigue and frustration of the marathon meeting ignited a wave of online outrage, underscoring the immense pressure Congress faces to push through this contentious legislation.

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