Americans are voting on 3 November in midterm elections that will determine who controls Congress. Donald Trump is not on the ballot, but the outcome could shape how easily he can pursue his political agenda. According to the BBC, the cost of living and frustration among some voters over high prices are among the main issues.
Millions of Americans have already cast their ballots through early voting, the BBC reports. Midterm elections take place halfway through a president’s term. This time, they will decide both the balance of power in Congress and the scope for opposition to the Trump administration.
A congressional majority could constrain the president
Congress consists of two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. The BBC’s assessment is that Democrats face a tougher task in winning control of the Senate than in securing a House majority. That is an assessment of the contest before the results, not a prediction of its outcome. The broadcaster notes that polling gaps in some races fall within the margin of error.
Even a Democratic takeover of the House alone could significantly alter the political conditions facing the White House. Such a majority could make it harder to pass legislation backed by the president and could launch congressional investigations. These are possible consequences of a shift in power, rather than decisions already taken.
Prices loom large in the campaign
Trump has campaigned actively for Republicans. According to the BBC’s analysis, however, his party is having to defend its position in some states previously considered safe territory. The frustration over living costs described by the broadcaster forms an important backdrop to those contests.
The voters’ views reported by the BBC illustrate individual concerns about prices; they are not a representative picture of opinion across the United States. Whether those concerns translate into a change of control in Congress will depend on the votes cast. At this stage, neither party has a confirmed victory.
