Republicans won the messaging battle in 2024. Now is the time to make it more than words.
And GOP Senator Jim Justice confessed Republicans’ biggest failure.
Jim Justice Champions Everyday Americans on Healthcare
Freshman Sen. Jim Justice, R-W.Va., delivered a candid assessment of the Republican Party’s strengths and shortcomings this week, praising the GOP’s impressive legislative wins in 2025 while urging better connection with ordinary voters on critical issues like rising healthcare costs.
Drawing from his eight years as West Virginia’s popular governor, Justice emphasized his deep understanding of average citizens—whom he affectionately calls “Toby and Edith.”
“We, as Republicans, and I have said this so many times, we’re lousy,” Justice told Fox News Digital. “We’re great at doing the good things, but we’re lousy at really knowing what Toby and Edith are thinking. And that causes a lot of problems.”
Warning Against Political Missteps Amid Subsidy Expiration
With enhanced Obamacare premium subsidies set to expire on December 31—potentially causing out-of-pocket costs to double, triple, or surge over 300% for tens of millions—Justice highlighted how voters hold the party in power accountable, regardless of origins.
“They’re thinking, ‘Well, you know, I know [[former President Barack] Obama] started all this stuff, and I know it didn’t work, and everything, but the Republicans are pretty much in charge right now,’” Justice said. “‘So, you know, if they’re in charge, why don’t they fix it?’”
He cautioned colleagues against underestimating the impact, stating that ignoring these concerns would be “making a bad move on the chessboard.”
Justice’s grounded perspective reflects his proven track record of relating to working families, positioning him as a vital voice for practical solutions.
Pushing for Comprehensive Reform Over Short-Term Fixes
Justice commended President Trump and the GOP trifecta for nearly flawless achievements—”almost pitched nine perfect games”—but stressed the need for bolder action on healthcare.
“I think just an extension doesn’t work,” Justice said.
“We need to fix it. We need to fix it all. And I think that’s what President Trump is really trying to do. He’s trying to get the money in their hands, instead of the money to insurance companies. All that’s great and everything, but I’m telling you, our messaging is, as Republicans, is not great in my book.”
