As the 2026 midterm elections loom, the Republican National Committee (RNC) has positioned its ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ as the foundation of its strategy to retain and expand its congressional majorities. RNC chair Michael Whatley, speaking in an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, emphasized the bill’s alignment with President Donald Trump’s campaign promises on economic revitalization, border security, and national strength. Whatley framed the legislation as the embodiment of the GOP’s vision for the United States, arguing that its passage would solidify the party’s dominance in the upcoming elections.
The ‘Big Beautiful Bill’—officially known as the Domestic Policy Act—encompasses a wide array of policies aimed at shaping the nation’s economic and social landscape. Central to the package is the extension of Trump’s 2017 tax cuts, which were initially set to expire at the end of this year. By making these tax cuts permanent, the bill is projected to cut taxes by nearly $4.4 trillion over the next decade, according to analysis by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. Additionally, the measure includes provisions to eliminate taxes on tips and overtime pay, reflecting the administration’s focus on economic relief for working Americans.
However, the legislation also introduces significant changes to social safety net programs, particularly Medicaid and food stamps. The bill restructures Medicaid, the federal program that provides health coverage to over 71 million low-income Americans, by introducing work requirements for many beneficiaries. It also includes cuts to food stamp benefits, which have long been a key component of the safety net for millions of households. These changes were framed as necessary to offset the costs of extending the tax cuts, though critics argue they will disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.
Democratic leaders have strongly criticized the bill, with National Committee vice chair Malcolm Kenyatta accusing RNC chair Michael Whatley of spreading ‘complete BS’ and ‘blatantly dishonest’ messaging. Kenyatta cited CBO projections that the legislation could disqualify 17 million Americans from health insurance coverage, calling the policy a ‘betrayal’ that will lead to a Republican loss in the midterms. The Democratic response underscores the contentious nature of the bill, which is already becoming a focal point in key Senate races and is expected to spark fierce political battles as the 2026 elections approach.
Whatley, however, remains confident in the GOP’s ability to secure victories, arguing that the party’s focus on delivering on promises will translate into electoral gains. He highlighted the importance of regulatory relief and additional legislative measures aimed at curbing spending and ensuring the administration’s fiscal discipline. Whatley also pointed to the party’s strong fundraising efforts as a key asset, although he acknowledged that Democrats will likely outspend Republicans in the lead-up to the midterms. Despite these challenges, Whatley emphasized that the GOP’s message of economic revitalization and national security will resonate with voters, positioning the party to expand its majorities in 2,026.
The political landscape ahead of the midterms is expected to be highly competitive, with the ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ serving as a central element of the GOP’s campaign strategy. As both major parties prepare for the upcoming elections, the legislation’s impact on public opinion and the eventual outcome of the midterms will remain a closely watched issue.