Speaker Mike Johnson Defends Major Trump-Backed Spending Bill, Calls It “Jet Fuel” for the U.S. Economy

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., is touting the new tax and spending legislation backed by former President Donald Trump as a transformative force for the American economy, brushing off criticism from Democrats and emphasizing that the bill will significantly benefit working Americans.

In a recent appearance on Fox News Sunday, Johnson praised the sweeping economic package, which was signed into law by Trump on Friday, calling it a “big, beautiful bill” and a cornerstone of the GOP’s renewed economic agenda. The speaker ceremonially handed Trump the House gavel after the signing, symbolizing the former president’s growing influence over Republican policy.

Johnson stated the legislation marks the first step in a three-part legislative plan aimed at bolstering the economy and reinforcing the “America First” agenda. He said two more major reconciliation bills are being prepared for the coming year—one anticipated in the fall and another expected by the following spring, before the end of the current congressional session.

“We’re pushing forward with a clear strategy,” Johnson said during the interview with Fox News anchor Shannon Bream. “This bill represents a major leap for our conservative principles. It’s the beginning of a much bigger push to restore prosperity for working families.”

Despite opposition from Democrats, including a memo from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee warning the legislation could cost Republicans their majority in 2026, Johnson remains confident that the law will win over voters.

“Republicans will be out in full force, explaining exactly how this bill helps everyday Americans,” Johnson said. “We’re talking about more take-home pay, more job opportunities, and a stronger economy. These aren’t talking points—they’re outcomes people will experience.”

Johnson rejected claims from Democratic lawmakers, such as Rep. Ro Khanna of California and DNC Chair Ken Martin, that the legislation primarily favors the wealthy. He labeled those arguments as recycled criticisms that have been used for years against Republican tax reform efforts.

He argued that the new law builds upon the 2017 Trump-era tax cuts, which he said delivered historic tax relief to low- and middle-income Americans. According to Johnson, the latest package goes even further by slashing taxes on overtime pay, tips, and retirement income for seniors—measures he believes will have a noticeable impact on the lives of working Americans.

“This is real relief,” he said. “We’re making sure the people who work hard every day can keep more of what they earn. It’s not just about wealthy investors or big corporations. This is for small business owners, farmers, manufacturers—the backbone of our economy.”

Johnson pointed to analysis from the Council of Economic Advisers suggesting the bill could lead to 3% annual economic growth, generate up to 4 million new jobs, and increase the average household’s after-tax income by as much as $13,000.

“This is a game-changer,” he said. “It’s going to supercharge the economy. It’s going to help people from all walks of life. That’s the real impact.”

Democrats, however, remain unconvinced. Rep. Glenn Ivey, D-Md., raised concerns that the bill permanently locks in tax breaks for top earners while phasing out benefits for middle-class families over time.

Johnson dismissed that claim, noting that the bill runs nearly 1,000 pages and suggesting that many critics may not have read it in full.

“I doubt he’s read the whole thing,” Johnson remarked. “It’s complex, but the bottom line is this: if you make between $30,000 and $80,000 a year, you’re going to see your federal tax rate go down by up to 15%. That’s significant.”

Bream noted that Ivey said he listened to the full reading of the bill on the Senate floor.

“Then he should know better,” Johnson responded. “This legislation locks in tax cuts for working Americans. It’s the largest tax reform bill in history, and its benefits won’t expire for the people who need them most.”

Johnson expressed optimism about the political future, saying the legislation will help Republicans make their case to voters in the 2026 midterms.

“When Americans feel the results—higher paychecks, more job openings, and lower taxes—they’ll remember who made that possible,” he said. “It’s going to be like the economic boom after the first Trump tax cuts, but this time, it’s on steroids.