These examples illustrate a persistent disconnect: major policy decisions were advanced despite clear and overwhelming opposition from the American public. Congress’s actions in these cases highlight systemic failures in responding to voter priorities and underscore the urgency for democratic reforms in accountability and representation.
(2025 Budget & Tax Package)
The sweeping GOP tax and spending bill—including deep Medicaid and food stamp cuts—was rejected by 55–64% of Americans, with net approval ratings ranging from –10% to –22% across major polls (AP News, The Daily Beast, TIME, Equitable Growth, The Washington Post).
Despite this significant public disapproval, Congress passed it with support from nearly all party-line Republicans, illustrating a stark divergence from voter sentiment (AP News, The Daily Beast, The Washington Post).
(2017 House Bill to Repeal ACA)
Public disapproval ranged from 55% to 62%, with only about 31–38% expressing support—making it one of the most unpopular legislative efforts in decades (Wikipedia).
Despite historically low public backing, Congress pushed forward with the bill—fueling widespread outrage and political backlash (Wikipedia).
According to FiveThirtyEight, the 2017 tax reform ranked among the least popular major tax bills in 36 years, with consistent data showing more people disapproved than approved throughout its key phases (Wikipedia).
("Bathroom Bill")
Support plummeted from 56% to just 30% within months, and the law was widely blamed for the popular incumbent Governor’s defeat in 2016 (Wikipedia).
