Republican lawmakers are preparing for the upcoming midterm elections by addressing concerns about the high cost of living, which has left many Americans feeling financially strained. As they strategize, a significant portion of the GOP is attributing this economic discontent to the policies of the Biden administration rather than presenting a comprehensive plan to alleviate household budgets.
Following the Democratic victories in the November 4, 2024 elections, where candidates prominently focused on affordability, Republicans acknowledge the economic pressures affecting their constituents. House Rules Committee chairwoman Virginia Foxx emphasized, “This is the Biden economy. You can’t turn it around instantaneously,” in an interview with the Daily Caller News Foundation.
The Republican Party’s reluctance to fully own the current economic situation may pose risks as they approach critical elections that could influence the final two years of Donald Trump‘s presidency. According to Sam Kay, director of external affairs at the Manhattan Institute, “Republicans’ messaging on the economy is awful,” suggesting that the party’s narrative of blaming the current administration could lead to poor election outcomes.
Despite sweeping to power in Washington after the 2024 elections by criticizing Joe Biden for rising inflation, Republicans are struggling to shift voters’ perceptions about their declining purchasing power. A recent Fox News poll revealed that 76% of voters view the economy negatively, a notable increase from the 70% recorded at the end of Biden’s term.
The survey showed a significant sentiment shift, where 62% of registered voters believe Trump bears more responsibility for the economic situation compared to Biden’s 32%. Among Republicans, over 40% attribute the economic challenges to Trump, while 53% place the blame on Biden.
Widespread concern about rising costs is evident, with 85% of respondents reporting increased grocery prices over the past year, and substantial percentages noting higher expenses for utilities (78%), healthcare (67%), housing (66%), and gasoline (54%). Voters in key regions, including New York City, Virginia, and New Jersey, identified the economy as their top issue in the recent elections.
To regain voter confidence in the lead-up to the 2026 elections, Kay suggests Republicans must adopt a more aggressive economic narrative. He advises, “Voters think the economy is bad, so don’t tell them it’s good.” Many GOP lawmakers argue that their efforts to reduce regulations on energy production and provide tax relief will eventually benefit consumers, although some express skepticism about the party’s current efficacy.
While House Speaker Mike Johnson has hinted at an “affordability agenda” for discussion in December, the specifics remain vague. August Pfluger, a Republican representative, has proposed a legislative approach focusing on affordability, law, and order, and family issues, to be introduced early next year.
Despite these discussions, uncertainty looms regarding whether congressional leadership will rally behind a united legislative agenda or if they possess the votes necessary to enact such measures. House Republicans currently hold a slim two-seat majority, with the potential for additional resignations following the unexpected announcement from Marjorie Taylor Greene.
The recent turmoil surrounding a record-breaking government shutdown has further complicated matters, with House discussions largely overshadowed by internal party conflicts and calls for transparency regarding the Jeffrey Epstein files.
While some Republicans advocate for prioritizing legislation that addresses rising healthcare costs, the party has yet to coalesce around a unified proposal. Representative Tim Burchett expressed frustration over the lack of actionable results, stating, “We will write a strong letter or we’ll have a great hearing… but we don’t really do a lot.”
Moreover, some components of Trump’s economic agenda may take longer than expected to yield results. His administration’s focus on tariffs aims to reshape trade relationships and incentivize domestic manufacturing, yet many of the anticipated benefits remain unrealized. As pressure mounts, GOP leaders recognize the urgency of presenting tangible solutions to voters.
As the midterms approach, the Republican Party faces the dual challenge of addressing immediate economic concerns while also working towards a coherent long-term strategy that resonates with voters. Meeting these challenges head-on could be crucial for their success in the upcoming elections.