Affordability, AI and Iran: Americans on the key issues guiding their midterm votes
Guardian readers share their concerns and disillusionment with the political climate under Trump as elections loom Millions of Americans will head to the polls on 3 November in elections that will determine control of the Republican-held House of Representatives and Senate, as well as the governorships of 36 states. The midterms come amid mounting public frustration over issues ranging from the…
As Americans prepare to vote in the midterm elections on November 3rd, a range of issues are shaping their decisions, from the cost of living and AI to the US's foreign policy and environmental concerns. Despite Donald Trump's approval rating dropping to 36%, voters are expressing deep disillusionment with the current political climate.
Many highlight the soaring cost of living, with inflation reaching 3.7%. Kathryn Warren, a retired school staff member from North Carolina, shared that her family is "dying on the vine in this economy" due to high gas, grocery, and medicine costs. Similarly, Vicki Stein from Michigan expressed frustration over the country's "sliding into an authoritarian state", citing exorbitant healthcare costs for her migraine medication.
George, a 23-year-old Texas business school graduate, criticized the administration's "idiotic tariff scheme" and the US's war in Iran, arguing that billions of taxpayer dollars spent on killing children yield only "a mountain of dead bodies".
The influence of AI and big tech also emerged as a key concern. Dave Neps, a retired teacher in Georgia, warned of an "AI financial bubble" reminiscent of past market crashes, while Joy, an insurance executive in Georgia, called for datacenter moratoriums due to local officials' acceptance of massive tax incentives.
Regarding foreign policy, opposition to the US war in Iran and military aid to Israel remains a driving force. Joel Young from New Mexico argued that any politician who refuses to stop funding Israel's "perma-war" will receive his vote. Meanwhile, a 66-year-old civil litigator in New Mexico criticized the "evil war against Iran", stating that it scandalizes service members, taxpayers, and the nation.
Environmental concerns also played a role, particularly among older voters. David Tucker, a registered nurse in Washington, lamented the degradation of natural spaces over his lifetime and called for stricter environmental protections.
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