Trump’s Tax Cuts Win Big, But the Political Costs May Be Even Bigger

President Donald Trump has always been known for his bold style, branding everything he touches and refusing to back down from a fight. His approach to passing his signature tax legislation was no different. Trump called it the “One Big, Beautiful Bill,” and with the force of his personality and relentless pressure, he got nearly every Republican in Congress to stand behind it.

On paper, the law extends tax cuts first enacted during Trump’s earlier term, promising relief for workers who earn tips and overtime pay, as well as for seniors. Trump argued that without these extensions, millions of Americans would have faced tax hikes. Supporters say this proves he is keeping faith with the “forgotten people” who sent him to the White House.

But the price of making these tax cuts permanent was steep. To cover the costs, the legislation slashed funding for Medicaid and food assistance, programs that help some of the country’s poorest families. Nonpartisan analysts project these cuts will leave nearly 12 million more Americans uninsured by 2034. Democrats were quick to call this a betrayal of Trump’s earlier promises that Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid would be protected.

Early polling shows the law is unpopular with independents and even some Republicans, raising alarms as the 2026 midterm elections approach. Democrats are already gearing up to campaign on the idea that Trump’s party put wealthy Americans first while leaving working families with fewer protections.

Still, Trump seems unfazed by the controversy. In a speech after the bill passed, he shrugged off Democratic criticism as nothing more than personal hatred. “They hated Trump,” he said. “And I hate them, too.”

History suggests that landmark laws can define a presidency but also become political liabilities. Barack Obama’s health care law cost Democrats control of Congress, even though it later gained public support. Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act also struggled to win voters over despite its ambitious goals.

For now, Trump and his allies are celebrating their victory. But the real test will come when voters decide whether this “big, beautiful bill” truly delivered for them or left them behind.