Democrats have labeled it a “big ugly bill,” yet some minority members are starting to recognize the value in certain provisions of President Donald Trump’s legislative package, referring to it as a “big beautiful bill.” This shift in perspective is gaining them some credibility.

Across the nation, communities are enthusiastic about the billions in federal funding stemming from the tax relief and immigration reforms Trump signed on July 4th. A handful of Congressional Democrats, despite having vehemently opposed the bill during its passage, are now claiming credit for aspects that seem advantageous to their constituents.

Hakeem Jeffries, the House Democrats’ leader, has noted that backing Trump’s budget bill could cost Republicans control of the House in the upcoming midterm elections. Some members of his team are subtly informing constituents that certain provisions are indeed well-received by voters.

Mike Marinella, a spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee, commented, “Democrats voted against the most significant tax cuts in a generation, along with historic border security measures. Now they’re trying to take credit, as they have little else to run on.” He likened it to setting a fire to illuminate a house just as the fire department arrives and then claiming the credit.

Kansas Rep. Sharis David lauded the influx of federal funds for the Kansas City area, aimed at enhancing security as the region prepares to host six games for the 2026 World Cup. She announced on social media, “New federal funds are on their way to improve public safety ahead of next year’s World Cup!” Interestingly, she didn’t mention the connection to Trump’s comprehensive law.

David has referred to the legislation as an “extreme budget,” a sentiment she expressed in a prior statement announcing her opposition to the bill.

In an earlier post, she shared her frustration about the bill’s passage, saying, “I’ve been fired up about this.” David isn’t alone; other Democrats are also publicly acknowledging beneficial aspects of Trump’s law, which allocates $625 million in federal funds for the World Cup.

Missouri Democrat Emmanuel Cleaver, representing a nearby district, has taken responsibility for bringing federal dollars from Trump’s expansive legislation. “After collaborating with representatives nationwide to secure federal investment for safe and organized events, we’re thrilled to get $625 million for security in 11 host cities, including Kansas City,” he stated in a joint declaration with David.

Just a week ago, Cleaver described the law, which incorporated World Cup funding, as “morally reprehensible and deeply flawed” in his opposition to it. He pointed out issues like tax cuts benefiting high-income individuals and proposed reforms to the budget package.

Additionally, Missouri Rep. Wesley Bell voiced his support for parts of Trump’s law. During discussions on the budget, he previously labeled the legislation as “cruel” and “devastating.” Still, he joined others in celebrating the renewal and significant expansion of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA), a long-standing goal for Sen. Josh Hawley, a Republican from Missouri. RECA allows Americans in certain regions to seek compensation for exposure to nuclear waste.

Speaking at an event in St. Louis, Bell was questioned about his “no” vote while lauding the compensation fund for nuclear radiation victims embedded in a bill he had firmly opposed. “You don’t always get everything you desire,” he remarked. “While there are pressing concerns many of us have with this budget bill, it’s essential those who have suffered long await recognition for their pain.”

“This is a bill I can feel somewhat satisfied with,” he added, marking a notable shift from the more intense rhetoric from House Democrats on the day of the vote, which did not mention the RECA expansion.

Despite his explicit disapproval, he noted, “What happened in our chambers today will be viewed as one of the darkest votes in recent American history. The reality is that most individuals haven’t fully grasped how devastating this is.”

In the days following, new lawmakers have subtly claimed credit for the RECA expansion. Bell stated, “For many in North St. Louis, the wait for compensation has been far too long.” He reiterated his commitment to pushing for compensation efforts, indicating he wouldn’t relent until every affected family received justice.

No comments were received from spokespeople representing David, Cleaver, and Bell when contacted.