1. What are House Republicans focused on as they prepare for the November midterms?
House Republicans acknowledge that the midterms will be a referendum on what they did to lower the cost of living. They are preparing to pass more legislation aimed at reducing prices in energy, housing and health care, with all GOP members interviewed agreeing that the cost of living and broader economy will be the top focus for voters in November.
2. How are Americans currently feeling about the economy?
A Gallup poll from December found that 47% of U.S. adults view economic conditions as “poor,” the highest level since September 2024. Just 21% say conditions are “excellent” or “good,” while 31% describe them as “only fair.”
3. What specific policies are Republicans pursuing to lower energy costs?
Republicans are pursuing “a strategy of energy dominance” that includes permitting reform to streamline regulatory approvals for energy projects and legislation to adjust the Clean Air Act so American jobs aren’t held responsible for wildfire smoke from Canada or pollution from other countries. They argue that increasing energy production will lower gas prices and reduce costs for groceries and other products as delivery becomes cheaper.
SEE ALSO: House Republicans ready for battle over cost of living in midterm elections
4. How are Republicans planning to address housing affordability?
The House Financial Services Committee approved a bipartisan bill to update outdated housing programs and remove regulatory roadblocks for developing affordable housing. Rep. John McGuire is also introducing the American Dream Act, which would provide incentives to rental property owners 65 or older to sell to first-time homebuyers by reducing their capital gains taxes.
5. What challenges do Republicans face heading into the midterms?
Democrats are just a few seats away from winning control of the House and recently demonstrated their ability to exploit Republican divisions by successfully passing a bill to renew enhanced Obamacare subsidies through a discharge petition. Republicans are also working with very narrow margins in the House, which could complicate their ability to pass major legislation like another reconciliation package.
Read more: House Republicans ready for battle over cost of living in midterm elections
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