House Speaker Mike Johnson is determined to push forward on a crucial budget committee vote, sparking a potential clash with Senate GOP leaders as they aim to pursue a separate strategy for advancing President Donald Trump’s agenda. Following a lengthy meeting with Trump, Johnson and House GOP leaders expressed optimism about progressing with their agenda in a consolidated bill, contrasting with the Senate’s preference for two separate bills. However, critical questions remain unanswered, such as the bill’s cost and how to handle raising the nation’s borrowing limit.

Despite the unresolved issues, Johnson highlighted key agreements reached during the meeting that could pave the way for House Republicans to proceed with their budget blueprint. House GOP leaders are striving to move swiftly, potentially as early as Tuesday, to outpace the Senate GOP’s plans. Discussions are ongoing to finalize details, including the identification of savings in the bill and addressing the debt limit, a top priority for Trump.

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise emphasized the need for consensus on contentious issues, such as the savings target and making the 2017 tax cuts permanent. Trump’s active engagement in the meeting underscored the importance of aligning on critical details for the plan. With the pressure to secure support from within the party, Johnson emphasized the urgency of finalizing the framework to ensure successful passage. The meeting displayed a mix of tension and progress, setting the stage for further deliberations to solidify the emerging plan.

In parallel, Senate Majority Leader John Thune emphasized the necessity for prompt progress in the negotiations, underscoring the importance of advancing the agenda collaboratively. As House Republicans work towards presenting and passing their budget blueprint, the intricate process of enacting Trump’s agenda unfolds, signaling a pivotal moment in shaping the legislative landscape.