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House GOP Backs Deficit Amendment, Sparks Social Safety Net Concerns

3/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On March 19, 2026, nearly all House Republicans backed a constitutional amendment led by Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) to bar deficit spending except in declared wars.
The amendment passed 211-207 but did not reach the two-thirds threshold for constitutional changes.
Critics, including Rep. John Larson (D-Conn.), warn it would cut Social Security and Medicare.
The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities warns it could devastate housing, education, and research appropriations.

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Story summary

On March 19, 2026, nearly all House Republicans backed a constitutional amendment led by Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) to bar deficit spending except in declared wars.
The amendment passed 211-207 but did not reach the two-thirds threshold for constitutional changes.
Critics, including Rep. John Larson (D-Conn.), warn it would cut Social Security and Medicare.
The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities warns it could devastate housing, education, and research appropriations.