AP Poll: High Prices Top Voter Concerns as Midterms Open

Polls are open across the United States as voters head to the polls to decide the balance of power in Congress. This midterm election marks the halfway point of President Donald Trump's second term. The outcome will determine which party controls the House and Senate for the president's final two years. All 435 House seats are up for grabs, along with 35 Senate seats and 36 governorships. The Associated Press describes the day as a referendum on the current administration's performance.

The economy has emerged as the central concern for American voters. Only 25 percent of U.S. Adults approve of Trump's handling of the economy. A broader 35 percent approve of his overall job performance. About seven in ten respondents say the country is heading in the wrong direction. Most of these voters blame the president for high prices. This sentiment suggests that financial strain is a primary driver of voter behavior today.

In Raleigh, North Carolina, the economic pressure is palpable. James Moore, a 57-year-old librarian, cited rising costs as his main concern. He stated that he is paying more taxes and more for healthcare. Moore noted that he is paying more for everything. His comments reflect the broader national trend of voters struggling with the cost of living. North Carolina is considered a key battleground state in this election.

Conversely, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, some voters express satisfaction with the current trajectory. Mark Barker, a voter in that community, said he has been following Trump closely. Barker believes the president is doing an awesome job. His perspective highlights the division in the electorate regarding economic management. Florida is also a critical state, with a special Senate election and competitive governor race on the ballot.

Voters are also angry over an unpopular war with Iran. However, prices remain the top issue in many districts. Republicans are bracing for potential losses in the House. They are fighting to hold the Senate, where Democrats need a net gain of four seats for a majority. Republicans can lose no more than two Senate seats to maintain control. In the House, Democrats need a net gain of three districts. Republicans can lose no more than two House seats to keep their majority.

Turnout is a critical factor in this election. RNC Chairman Joe Gruters emphasized that everything depends on turnout. He stated that if Republicans turn out their voters, they will win. This is the strategy they have been planning for. On the other side, DCCC Chair Rep. Suzan DelBene said the American people are angry. She believes they want change. Both parties are focused on mobilizing their bases to ensure a decisive outcome.

More than 57 million people had already voted as of Monday. This surpasses the early vote from four years ago in many closely watched states. The high number of early votes indicates strong engagement from both sides. Republicans tried to beat the typical midterm pattern where a president's party loses seats. They utilized redistricting efforts, but new districts in Florida and elsewhere may not vote as drawn. This adds another layer of uncertainty to the day's results.

Tariffs and economic strain have made specific Senate races competitive. In Maine, economic factors have turned the race between Sen. Susan Collins and Troy Jackson into a toss-up. In North Carolina, former Gov. Roy Cooper faces Michael Whatley. The race is closely watched as the state has a new congressional map. In Kansas, a reliably Republican state, the Senate race has become central to the fight for control. The AP notes that economic issues are influencing voters in these states.

The money in this election is historic. The 2026 elections are likely to be the most expensive in history. Republican committees outraised and outspent Democratic committees at the committee level. This was helped by Trump-affiliated groups and Elon Musk. However, at the candidate level, Democrats outraised their opponents. Analysis of AdImpact data shows that 88.1 percent of Republican general election TV ad spending went to states and districts Trump won in 2024. This includes more than $850 million in areas where he won by 10 points or more.

Voters are also watching the administration's actions regarding election integrity. Trump has continued to make claims about voting fraud. His administration sued in Alaska and California. Democrats fear interference and intimidation as the Justice Department threatens to prosecute local election officials. A federal judge temporarily barred the administration from carrying out a plan to prevent noncitizen voting. Critics say this risks disenfranchising eligible voters. Another judge ordered the administration to stop demanding that California officials segregate ballots of suspected noncitizens.

The stakes are high for the next two years. If Democrats win even one chamber, investigations and possible impeachment proceedings become likely. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries would be the first Black speaker if his party takes the House. He has outlined a 100-day agenda focused on the cost of living and oversight. A strong Democratic night would also boost potential 2028 candidates like Gavin Newsom and Pete Buttigieg. For Republicans, holding both chambers would allow them to continue their legislative agenda. The polls will close at different times in each state, with the final results pending until late tonight.