Former President Trump is cautioning fellow Republicans not to slash spending too aggressively in their push to pass a major bill before July 4. While the proposed legislation includes sweeping tax cuts and reductions to programs like Medicaid and food stamps, Trump warned that going too far could hurt GOP reelection chances. The debate highlights tensions within the party over fiscal priorities and political fallout.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about policy—it’s about politics. Trump’s warning underscores the tightrope Republicans are walking: appeasing fiscal conservatives while avoiding backlash from voters who rely on social programs. With midterms looming, how they handle this could shape the party’s future.

Senator Thom Tillis, a moderate Republican, is calling it quits after 2026—and his decision comes right after he voted against Trump-backed legislation (dubbed the "Big Beautiful Bill"). Trump didn’t just shrug it off; he openly cheered Tillis’s exit, which tells you a lot about where the GOP is headed. Moderates like Tillis are finding it harder to survive in a party increasingly shaped by Trump’s influence. This isn’t just about one senator leaving; it’s a sign of the GOP’s broader shift away from compromise and toward a more hardline stance.

Editor’s Note: If you’ve been wondering why Congress feels more polarized than ever, this is a snapshot of why. As moderate Republicans bow out or get pushed aside, the party’s center of gravity moves further toward Trump’s brand of politics. That could mean even less room for bipartisanship—and more gridlock on big issues. For voters who liked the idea of a GOP with a mix of voices, this is a worrying trend.

North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis, who recently opposed Trump's tax and spending plan, has decided not to run for reelection in 2026. His departure sets up a competitive race for his Senate seat, giving Democrats a shot at flipping it. Tillis, sometimes a bipartisan figure, faced backlash from Trump and fellow Republicans over his stance.

Editor’s Note: Tillis stepping down shakes up the political landscape in North Carolina, a key swing state. His opposition to Trump’s agenda—and the resulting fallout—highlights the ongoing tensions within the GOP. For Democrats, this is a chance to claw back a seat in a closely divided Senate. For Republicans, it’s a test of whether they can hold the line without alienating moderates. Either way, expect a messy, expensive battle ahead.