Senate Republicans block $78bn tax cut package

Senate Republicans have blocked a $78bn tax cut package aimed at benefiting businesses and low-income families, key groups needed for electoral success in November. The tax package, which had passed the House with strong bipartisan support, failed to overcome a Senate filibuster, garnering only 48 votes in favor against 44. Only three Republicans, Josh Hawley, Markwayne Mullin, and Rick Scott, supported the measure. The blocked bill aimed to expand the child tax credit and provide additional support for small businesses. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the Republicans, suggesting they will face pressure during the August recess to reconsider. Key Republican tax-writer Mike Crapo indicated a preference to wait until the 2017 Trump tax cuts expire next year, hoping for Republican control of the Senate and White House. The decision has cast doubt on potential bipartisan agreements on tax reform in the future.