“Financial concerns have been the most pressing issue for voters in four of the six previous midterm elections of this century. But with the war in Iran and tariffs driving up gas prices, inflation and mortgage rates, the worries feel deeper, more desperate and decidedly center stage in the final days of the hard-fought campaign that will decide control of Congress,” the New York Times reports.

“Democrats are hammering President Trump for starting a war with Iran and instituting tariffs that have driven up prices, while Republicans are insisting the fundamentals of the economy are stronger than before they took power two years ago. And polls show that pocketbook issues are once again top of mind for many voters.”

“If presidential elections are about a vision for the future, midterms give voters a chance to offer their verdict on a president, a Congress and, almost always, the nation’s economic health.”

New York Times: “For Mr. Trump, that previous source of political strength now threatens to topple Republicans in 2026. The fate of the party’s control of Congress may well hinge on the depth of voters’ fury with the rising cost of living — and the president’s unmet promises to do something about it.”

“The concern among Republicans has been evident as Mr. Trump crisscrosses the country in an 11th-hour campaign sprint. He has tried to present the economy as strong, growing and rife with new investment, while downplaying the fact that inflation has clearly worsened under his party’s stewardship.”

Washington Post: “Incomes have not kept up with rising costs in 42 of the 46 most competitive midterm election districts. But the problem is marginally worse in Republican-held districts, according to Post analysis of family budget data between 2019 and 2024.”

”As voters decide which party can best rescue their chance at the American Dream, political experts say prolonged economic hardship is the defining feature influencing voters in the midterms.”