Election Day is just six weeks away, and pressure is mounting on Republicans as they seek to maintain their control of Congress. Republicans are on defense in their attempt to hold onto their narrow majorities in both the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate. 

Over the past few weeks, the political landscape has expanded to encompass additional battleground states, including some historically red seats in Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio and Texas.

Several races have become competitive in states that President Donald Trump handily won in the 2024 presidential election.

President Trump’s approval rating has hovered around 40% in recent polling as voters express concerns about the economy, affordability and foreign policy. Rising fuel costs have exacerbated unease regarding the cost of living. These issues have been a central component of navigating the midterms for both parties, in addition to ongoing debate surrounding the future of artificial intelligence. 

In this final stretch of the campaign cycle, Republicans have increased their spending to protect competitive House and Senate seats. GOP party committees and allied groups have a significant financial advantage over Democrats, with Republican groups outspending Democrats in several competitive Senate races.

With control of Congress in the balance, the final weeks of the 2026 midterm campaign will continue to focus on affordability and fuel prices. These issues will also likely remain prominent within the national political debate as the attention will soon turn towards the 2028 presidential election.