The midterms will come down to the cost of everything — and who voters trust to fix it
It's almost election time in America, and voters in swing states are looking at their wallets — and gas prices — at the ballot box.
As the midterms approach, affordability is the main issue voters are weighing when choosing candidates. In swing states, gas, electricity, and housing prices have skyrocketed, prompting candidates from both parties to propose solutions.
Michigan resident Zac Owen, a brand strategist and high school football coach, frequently drives long distances to other parts of the state due to the high cost of living. He said that hearing more from candidates about affordability is crucial in his decision.
The elections are just a month away, and candidates have touted their plans to bring costs down. However, the war in Iran, rising prices for electricity and housing, and tariffs threaten to keep affordability at the forefront. A recent poll found that 47% of registered voters believe the cost of living would be the most important factor in their candidate choice.
Inflation is currently above the Fed's 2% target, and more interest rate hikes could occur before the year is over. Seven Senate races are considered toss-ups, including Alaska, Iowa, Maine, Michigan, New Hampshire, Ohio, and Texas.
In Michigan, Republicans are pushing for a ban on diesel exports and suspending gas taxes, while Democrats call for lower gas and diesel prices. Democrats in Michigan, such as candidate Abdul El-Sayed, emphasize gas and grocery affordability, while Republicans like Mike Rogers propose down payment assistance and reduced interest rates to make housing more affordable.
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