Trump vetoes first bills of his second term

December 31, 2025

President Donald Trump issued his first vetoes since returning to office, rejecting two bipartisan bills that had wide congressional support. One bill, sponsored by Republican Representative Lauren Boebert, would have reduced Colorado communities' costs for a water pipeline project, which Trump deemed economically unviable and harmful to federal repayments. The second bill aimed to assist Florida's Miccosukee tribe with flooding prevention, but Trump accused the tribe of unauthorized development and obstructing immigration policies by opposing the "Alligator Alcatraz" detention facility.

Who is affected

Colorado communities paying for the water pipeline project
Representative Lauren Boebert
The Miccosukee tribe in Florida
American taxpayers
Tina Peters (73-year-old county clerk imprisoned in Colorado)
The federal government (regarding pipeline repayments)
Congress members who supported the bills
Colorado Governor Jared Polis

What action is being taken

President Trump is vetoing two bipartisan bills that passed Congress. Trump is calling on Colorado Governor Jared Polis to release Tina Peters from imprisonment.

Why it matters

These vetoes represent Trump's first legislative rejections since returning to office and could trigger congressional override attempts given the bipartisan support both bills received. The actions signal potential political tensions within the Republican party, particularly with Trump ally Lauren Boebert, and demonstrate how immigration policy enforcement is being prioritized over other concerns, including Native American tribal infrastructure needs. The situation also highlights ongoing conflicts between Trump and Colorado political leaders over election-related prosecutions and state authority.

What's next

Lawmakers could attempt to override the vetoes in the new year with enough votes. Representative Boebert has stated "This isn't over," suggesting continued efforts regarding the Colorado water pipeline bill. The courts will continue to decide Tina Peters' case regarding her state conviction.

Read full article from source: BBC