Senate Republicans can afford to lose no more than three of their own votes on the bill, but two already are opposed and others remained undecided.

In an interview with ABC News before the procedural vote, Paul said the "deficit next year is going to be worse, not better."

The GOP tax bill’s passage remains uncertain as deadline approaches. A GOP senator announced his retirement after Trump attacks. The Trump administration notified Harvard of civil rights violations. A key witness against Kilmar Abrego García was released from prison.