‘Bordering on angry’: The state of play as US midterms enter final month
Both parties are campaigning hard as voters prepare to decide control of the US House and Senate. Democrats appear to have gained ground, while Republicans are spending heavily to limit losses.
President Donald Trump is a central figure in the contest and has described it as a judgment on his leadership. His approval ratings are very low, according to the article.
The economy is voters’ leading concern in surveys. Gas prices, immigration and corruption also feature prominently, with higher fuel costs linked in the article to the US-Israel war with Iran.
A recent Cook Political Report assessment shifted 15 House contests toward Democrats. It now projects the party could gain between five and 15 seats, which would strengthen its ability to challenge Trump and investigate his administration.
The Senate contest is less predictable, says Kyle Kondik of Sabato’s Crystal Ball. Every House seat is being contested, but just 35 Senate seats are up this cycle, narrowing the routes to a majority.
Key points
- Democrats have improved prospects for House gains, according to a recent race analysis.
- Voters rank the economy first, while fuel costs, immigration and corruption are also concerns.
- The Senate battle is more uncertain, with only 35 seats contested this cycle.