Economic Gloom Threatens GOP Midterm Prospects

Economic dissatisfaction is emerging as a major vulnerability for Republicans ahead of the midterm elections, with widespread concern over food, health care, housing and energy costs. A Pew survey found more Americans rate the economy poorly than positively, and 65% say President Donald Trump’s policies have made conditions worse; Republican assessments have also weakened since January. Analysts say there is little time for economic policy changes to shift voters’ views before Election Day. Political forecasts point to Democrats potentially winning control of the House, while the Senate remains uncertain; losing either chamber would constrain Trump’s legislative agenda, and a Senate loss could also stall his appointments.