'The No. 1 thing': Republicans agonize over their economic inaction
As senators leave Washington before the midterms, many worry failure to address voters’ economic concerns could cost them control of Congress.
Republican senators and representatives are grasping for answers as to why they have not adequately addressed economic concerns among their constituents before the upcoming election. Despite passing a significant tax cut law, Republicans are concerned they have not shown voters they are actively tackling high gas prices, persistent inflation, and soaring interest rates that could impact their House and Senate majorities in November.
West Virginia Senator Jim Justice warned that "If you’re not worried, you’re living in a cave," as West Virginians, who generally support President Trump, feel that Congress deserves their 14% approval rating. The unease over the economy is widespread across the Republican Party, with many House members and senators urging the body to return to Washington to address fuel prices and cost-of-living issues.
Democrats are exploiting these economic anxieties in battleground campaigns, targeting red state incumbents such as Senators Roger Marshall of Kansas, Darline Graham of South Carolina, and Cindy Hyde-Smith of Mississippi. Republican leadership attempted to address utility costs with a data center bill from Senator Dan Sullivan, but Democrats blocked it.
White House spokesperson Olivia Wales stated that President Trump remains committed to delivering economic relief for American families, citing the tax bill and progress on private-sector jobs, manufacturing investments, and various price reductions.
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