Exclusive — Scott Brown criticizes Chris Pappas on tax relief stance

 September 29, 2025

Former Sen. Scott Brown has launched a blistering attack on Rep. Chris Pappas (D-N.H.) for voting against legislation that could have delivered essential tax relief to numerous American workers.

In a striking interview, Brown accused Pappas of rejecting vital measures that would block taxes on tips and overtime earnings, while also risking a government shutdown that might allow for sweeping federal cuts under a Trump administration, as Breitbart reports.

Speaking on Breitbart News Saturday, Brown, a Republican candidate aiming for the New Hampshire Senate, articulated profound concerns regarding Pappas’ recent voting behavior in the halls of Congress.

Tax Break Legislation Sparks Fierce Political Clash

Brown specifically called out Pappas for his decision to oppose a piece of legislation widely referred to as the “Big Beautiful Bill.”

This proposed law sought to exempt tips and overtime pay from taxation, a policy Brown argued would provide immediate financial benefits to countless working-class individuals and their families across New Hampshire and the broader United States.

He stressed the importance of this missed opportunity, stating, “He also voted against the Big Beautiful Bill and let’s look at what that means — no tax on tips, no tax on overtime.”

Funding Extension Dispute Heightens Shutdown Worries

Beyond the tax relief controversy, Brown criticized Pappas for voting against a clean extension of government funding.

Termed a continuing resolution (CR), this measure received backing from the majority of House Republicans as a means to ensure that federal operations could continue without interruption for the foreseeable future.

Brown indicated that Pappas’ refusal to support this extension could be perceived as an implicit endorsement of a potential government shutdown, an outcome that might disrupt critical public services and introduce widespread uncertainty for many citizens.

Shutdown Threat Could Lead to Extensive Federal Reductions

Delving into the possible consequences of a government shutdown, Brown highlighted the risk of significant changes to the federal government’s structure and operational capacity.

He cautioned that such a scenario could empower President Trump and his administration to implement substantial cuts to various federal programs and agencies, potentially reshaping the role of government in numerous areas of public life.

Brown elaborated on this looming possibility, saying, “If in fact we go to a government shut down, it’s my understanding based on my experience there that you’re giving President Trump and his team the ability to make really deep cuts that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to do.”

Political Divisions Hamper Solutions for Public Concerns

Brown further criticized Democrats, including Pappas, for what he perceives as prioritizing narrow partisan goals over addressing the genuine needs and challenges faced by the constituents they are elected to serve.

He voiced his frustration with this pattern of governance, stating, “He chided Democrats putting petty partisan interests over the people and that’s what wrong with government and that’s why I’m running.”

Describing Pappas as a “backbencher,” Brown suggested that the congressman’s recent voting decisions do not reflect the urgent priorities of New Hampshire residents, especially when it comes to providing economic support for hardworking individuals and ensuring the uninterrupted functioning of essential government services during a time of political and economic uncertainty.