As voters prepare to go to the polls next week, the upcoming midterm elections are widely viewed as a referendum not only on President Donald Trump and his administration but also on a notably unproductive session of Congress. Public approval of the legislative branch remains near historic lows, with only about 10% of Americans expressing satisfaction with its performance.

This Congress has been characterized by a significant decline in legislative productivity and oversight activities, marking one of the least effective sessions in modern U.S. history, according to political scholars. Despite unified Republican control, the most prominent legislative accomplishment, the tax overhaul known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, has become a source of widespread controversy rather than a political asset.

Enacted with considerable public skepticism, the tax legislation has still left much of the electorate uncertain about its contents. Among those familiar with its provisions, majority opinion tends toward disapproval, particularly due to its combination of substantial tax cuts for businesses and wealthy individuals with an increased national debt burden. A summer survey indicated only 8% of Americans felt the law had a positive impact on their personal finances. Additionally, the bill reduced federal spending by billions on food assistance programs and cut more than a trillion dollars from health care initiatives, including Medicaid.

While the Republican majority has struggled to claim legislative victories, two notable pieces of legislation emerged with bipartisan support and became law despite President Trump’s opposition. These include the Epstein Files Transparency Act, aimed at increasing disclosure of records related to Jeffrey Epstein, and a housing reform package designed to limit corporate acquisitions of single-family homes.

Analysts suggest that rather than achieving landmark policy changes, this Congress will be remembered for its minimal legislative output and inability to effectively address key national issues. As the midterms approach, voters appear poised to deliver their judgment not only on the Trump administration but also on a legislature often seen as falling short of its responsibilities.