A budget blueprint has been cleared by the Republican-led House of Representatives, the first step towards advancing President Donald Trump's plan to cut taxes as well as increase funding for border security and the military.

Two weeks ago, Trump seemingly doubled down: "BALANCED BUDGET!!!" he declared in an all-caps post on Truth Social that, in fairness, could be seen either as a demand for such a thing—or an expression of outrage at the idea. Perhaps House Republicans believe it to be the latter.