MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Affordability is taking center stage in Washington as Republicans and Democrats each argue their policies offer the best path to easing financial pressure on American families.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-South Dakota, outlined the Republican position during remarks on the Senate floor, saying the GOP majority has delivered tax relief through what he called the One Big Beautiful Bill.

“Whether I’m visiting a small business in Isabel, South Dakota, or talking to farmers at Dakota Fest, higher prices are a concern for South Dakotans, as they are for many Americans,” Thune said. “And affordability begins with more money in your pocket, which is exactly what Republicans have delivered with the working families tax cuts.”

Thune said tax relief is a key tool in helping families and small businesses manage rising costs, particularly in rural states like South Dakota.

Democrats, meanwhile, are focusing their affordability message on health care costs. They argue extending Affordable Care Act premium tax credits would help millions of Americans lower monthly insurance premiums and reduce household expenses. Those efforts have not yet gained enough support in Congress to advance.

With inflation, taxes, and health care costs continuing to be top concerns for voters, both parties are signaling affordability will remain a major issue as lawmakers debate future budget and tax policy.