Key facts
- US midterm elections for the House and Senate are scheduled for November 3.
- Republicans currently hold a slim majority in the House (218 seats) and a stronger majority in the Senate (53 seats).
- Donald Trump's approval rating is currently around 37%, down from over 50% at the start of his second term.
- The Cook Political Report identifies 21 'toss-up' districts in the House, with 15 held by Republicans and 6 by Democrats.
- Seven Senate seats are considered 'toss-ups', with 6 held by Republicans and 1 by Democrats.
- Republicans have a significant financial advantage, with over $600 million cash on hand for the RNC and allied groups, plus over $400 million for MAGA Inc.
Americans are set to vote on November 3 in the midterm elections, which will determine the composition of the House of Representatives and the Senate, significantly impacting the remainder of Donald Trump's presidency. Republicans currently hold majorities in both chambers.
President Trump's approval rating, currently around 37%, is seen as a key factor for the opposition Democrats, who are aiming to regain control of Congress. Historically, midterm elections often see the president's party lose seats, with an average of 27 House seats changing hands against the incumbent party since 1934.
The battle for the House is particularly close, with Republicans holding a slim majority of 218 seats plus one independent. The Cook Political Report identifies 21 'toss-up' districts, 15 of which are currently held by Republicans. Democrats need to win five of these toss-ups, along with 28 likely or leaning Democratic districts, to secure a majority.
In the Senate, Republicans hold 53 of the 100 seats. Thirty-five seats are up for election, and the Cook Political Report classifies seven as 'toss-ups', with six held by Republicans and one by Democrats. Democrats would need to win four of these toss-up seats, plus four leaning Democratic seats, to reach the 51 needed for control.
Key issues for voters include the cost of living crisis, with gas prices having fluctuated significantly, and healthcare access. Immigration is also a prominent issue, with Trump highlighting reduced border-crossing figures.
Despite signs pointing towards potential Democratic gains, Republicans possess a substantial financial advantage. The Republican National Committee and allied groups had over $600 million in cash on hand by late August, significantly more than the Democrats' nearly $400 million. This financial strength is being used for extensive advertising campaigns.