White House will unveil Trump’s 2026 budget, his first since returning to power

The White House is set to reveal President Donald Trump’s 2026 budget on Friday, which is expected to propose significant cuts or complete elimination of several federal programs in line with the administration’s priorities. While budgets do not become law, they play a crucial role in shaping fiscal year debates and reflect the values and goals of the administration. This budget, the first since Trump’s re-election, will define his second-term agenda and priorities alongside the Republican Party in Congress.

The Office of Management and Budget, led by Russell Vought, a key figure in Project 2025, confirmed the planned release of the budget. The initial release is expected to provide an overview of the numbers, with more detailed information to follow soon. The nation’s federal budget, estimated at over $7 trillion, has been increasing steadily, leading to annual deficits nearing $2 trillion and nearly $1 trillion in annual interest on the debt, largely due to pandemic spending, changes in the tax code, and rising costs of healthcare programs.

Trump’s budget request is anticipated to include substantial spending cuts, reflecting actions already taken by the administration, such as reducing the government workforce. The budget may also outline potential new revenue sources, potentially from Trump’s tariffs program. Democrats are likely to criticize the budget as evidence of the administration’s intent to dismantle essential government programs.

As Congress works on drafting legislation for tax breaks, spending cuts, and increased funding for deportation efforts, Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, aims to have the bill approved by Memorial Day. Meanwhile, Cabinet officials are expected to testify about their budget requests before Congress, which ultimately holds the power to approve federal programs and funding. Vought, a respected conservative budget expert, will advocate for the administration’s budget proposals on Capitol Hill in the coming weeks.