Tax refunds are up this season, but polling shows that most Americans still think their taxes are too high, according to recent polls. The findings come after last year's tax law fulfilled several of President Donald Trump's tax-related campaign promises. A new Fox News poll indicates people are more upset about their tax bill than they were last year. The findings suggest that Americans are increasingly on edge about their personal finances as the U.S. experiences a spike in inflation and sluggish economic growth. Other polling, though, finds that frustration goes beyond personal tax obligations, with many believing that wealthy people and corporations are not paying their fair share.

A new poll shows most Americans see child care costs as a major issue, and majorities support the federal government offering free or low-cost day care and requiring employers to provide paid family leave. But a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows opinions differ on how to address the problem of child care and the government's role. About two-thirds back free day care and employer-paid leave, but only half prioritize federal action. Lawmakers have expanded child tax credits and benefits, but debates continue over funding and the best approach to support families.

Conservatives have blocked President Donald Trump's big tax breaks and spending cuts bill. House Republicans failed Friday to push it out of the Budget Committee. Four GOP conservatives initially voted against it, demanding further cuts to Medicaid and green energy tax breaks. A fifth switched his vote in a procedural step so it could be reconsidered later and says he's confident they'll "get this done." Tallying a whopping 1,116 pages, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is teetering at a critical moment. At the same time, lawmakers from high-tax states including New York are demanding a deeper local tax deduction. Democrats call the package "bad economics." The Budget Committee plans to try again Sunday.

Senators are heading home for the month after failing to advance a bill to expand the child tax credit and restore some business tax breaks. Democratic Senate leader Chuck Schumer dared Republicans to vote against the tax cut package Thursday as campaign season ramps up, saying they'd voting against tax cuts for many low-income families and businesses. But GOP senators did just that during a 48-44 procedural vote that required support from 60 lawmakers to advance. Republicans said Democrats weren't serious about addressing their concerns about the bill and that they would be in position to write a better measure next year.