‘Really bad’: Ex-Sen. Jon Tester says Republicans can’t defend this bill

Elections & Public Opinion - Public opinion and citizen action remain crucial despite challenges to institutions [1] - Elections still matter significantly, as seen in Wisconsin where voters rejected Elon Musk's interference and a 19th-century abortion ban was struck down [2] - The 2026 midterms are officially starting, and a controversial bill casts a shadow on Republicans [3] Legislative Analysis - A Republican-drafted bill is considered fundamentally flawed and poorly thought out [6][8] - The bill negatively impacts hospitals, especially in rural America, food security, and potentially climate change, while increasing the national debt [8] - The bill is perceived as giving a "big windfall" to Republican campaign donors [14] Political Strategy & Impact - Democrats see an opportunity to attack the bill and must also articulate what they stand for in areas like housing and education [18] - The bill's unpopularity could burden candidates like John Cornyn, Joni Ernst, and even Susan Collins, despite her vote against it [12] - Rural hospitals are particularly vulnerable and may close at a higher rate if the bill passes [10]