WASHINGTON — Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) broke with party lines to criticize a fiscal package backed by President Donald Trump, warning it would significantly increase the national debt and undermine economic stability.
During an overnight House debate, Massie called the bill—often referred to by Republicans as the “Big, Beautiful Bill”—fiscally irresponsible. He compared it to a Titanic heading for a financial iceberg, arguing that simultaneous tax cuts and increased spending are unsustainable.
“I wish I could tell the American people that we can cut taxes and increase spending without consequences, but I can’t,” Massie said.
He warned that the bill would raise the federal deficit in the short term and questioned future accountability for budget goals. Massie described the legislation as a “debt bomb ticking,” highlighting concerns from Moody’s Investors Service about the U.S. credit outlook. He estimated that rising interest rates could lead to American families paying around $16,000 in interest annually.
Under the bill, the national debt could grow by up to $30 trillion over the next decade.
“Congress can use fantasy math, but bond investors do not,” he added.
Massie criticized the bill’s timing, stating, “If something is beautiful, you don’t do it after midnight.”
The House passed the bill by a single vote, with Massie voting against it alongside one other Republican and all Democrats. The measure is now headed to the Senate for consideration.