House GOP campaign arm targets Dems who voted against Trump-backed bill to fund government

The House GOP’s campaign committee is making a bold move by targeting congressional Democrats who voted against a measure to fund the federal government through Sept. 30 and prevent a looming government shutdown. The National Republican Congressional Committee has identified 35 House Democrats who may face tough races in the upcoming 2026 midterms, where the GOP is looking to defend its slim majority in the chamber.
In a strategic digital advertising campaign, the NRCC is calling out these Democrats for their opposition to the Republican-crafted bill, which passed the House 217-213 along party lines. The bill includes cuts to non-defense spending, an increase in defense spending, and grants President Donald Trump more flexibility in allocating funds. Thanks to aggressive lobbying efforts by Trump and his allies, the GOP was able to pass the bill without a single Democratic vote.
One notable exception was moderate Democrat Jared Golden of Maine, who represents a district that Trump carried in the past three presidential elections and supported the Republican measure. On the other side, Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, who voted against the bill, is facing backlash and a potential primary challenge from Trump loyalists in the next election cycle.
The NRCC’s digital ads will target Democratic representatives in key districts across the country, criticizing their refusal to support the funding bill. The committee’s spokesman, Mike Marinella, condemned House Democrats for prioritizing politics over the needs of the American people and causing a government shutdown.
In response, House Minority Leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries and House Democratic Caucus Chair Rep. Pete Aguilar defended their party’s opposition to the bill, calling it reckless and harmful to families. They emphasized the strong Democratic unity in rejecting the partisan measure.
As the 2026 midterm elections approach, both parties are gearing up for a fierce battle for control of the House. The NRCC’s aggressive ad campaign signals the GOP’s determination to hold onto power, while Democrats are mobilizing to challenge Republican policies and priorities.
The political landscape is set for intense competition, with each party vying for support and control in a divided Congress. The outcome of the 2026 elections will have far-reaching implications for the future of the country and the direction of government policies. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the campaign season heats up.