Vice President JD Vance has issued a stark warning to Democrats who opposed President Donald Trump’s historic tax and policy overhaul, suggesting they will face voter backlash in the 2026 midterms. The sweeping legislation, signed into law on July 4, includes major tax cuts and new deductions for tipped and overtime wages.
Speaking in Canton, Ohio, Vance declared that lawmakers who rejected the bill should “pay a penalty.” He emphasized that the historic tax and policy overhaul benefits workers and businesses across the nation. “They voted against great things for Ohio families,” Vance said. “Voters won’t forget this betrayal.”
Therefore, Democrats unanimously opposed the bill, joined by five Republican dissenters. Vance accused them of refusing to negotiate or propose improvements. “They didn’t even try to make the bill better,” he said. “Instead, they just attacked it blindly.”
The vice president claimed Democrats prioritize immigration and “attacking Trump” over economic relief. Polls show declining Democratic approval ratings, which Vance cited as proof of voter frustration. Meanwhile, Republicans aim to leverage the historic tax and policy overhaul to defend their House majority.
Vance has been campaigning in swing districts, including Pennsylvania’s 8th, where he endorsed vulnerable GOP Rep. Rob Bresnahan. He also plans RNC fundraisers in Wyoming and Montana. In Ohio, Rep. Emilia Sykes who narrowly won in 2024 faces renewed GOP pressure after voting against the bill.
A poll found 58% of voters oppose the legislation, while Democrats call it “cruel.” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries blasted its Medicaid and SNAP reforms, which could cut millions from benefits. “This bill is dangerous and heartless,” Jeffries said during a marathon floor speech.
Despite criticism, Trump and Vance remain confident the historic tax and policy overhaul will resonate with voters. As midterm campaigning heats up, the battle over this landmark law will likely dominate the political landscape.
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