Trump Advocates Single Reconciliation Package For Legislative Focus

President-elect Donald Trump has called on House Republicans to prioritize a single reconciliation bill to advance his administration’s policy agenda. House Speaker Mike Johnson shared Trump’s preference with lawmakers during a private meeting, according to Capitol Hill sources.

Trump described the proposed package as “one big beautiful bill,” underscoring the need for a comprehensive approach to address key issues. The strategy is intended to consolidate legislative efforts and avoid potential delays, according to the sources.

Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD) has suggested a different approach, proposing a two-step process that begins with immediate funding for border security. Harris argued that addressing the border crisis quickly is essential, noting that additional time would be needed to finalize broader legislative priorities.

“The fastest way to secure the southern border is through an initial, focused bill,” Harris said, suggesting that leaving complex negotiations for later would allow Congress to act swiftly on urgent matters.

Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO), who chairs the House Ways and Means Committee, has aligned with Trump’s call for a single package. Smith pointed to the GOP’s slim majority of 219 to 215, emphasizing that consolidating efforts would improve the odds of success.

Smith noted that Congress has rarely passed multiple reconciliation bills in the same year, making a single-bill approach more feasible.