Republicans close midterms with personal attacks
The gist
Republicans spent about $183 million on transgender-related ads and made personal attacks on opponents before the Nov 3 midterms.
Democrats lead 52% to 44% in one poll as voters cite prices and Trump's unpopularity.
How it unfolded
- Oct 22, 2026The Justice Department launched a preemptive legal action in Alaska seeking to stop state authorities from certifying a Senate race result, citing an independent candidate's shared surname with the incumbent Republican senator.
- Oct 25, 2026Republicans had spent roughly $183 million on transgender-related TV ads, airing about 217,000 times nationwide, more than comparable spending before the 2024 presidential election.
- Oct 26, 2026A Reuters/Ipsos survey completed this date put Trump's approval rating at 32%.