Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) stated on Monday that the ongoing war in Iran is influencing congressional races across the United States, emphasizing that the Republican Party's success in the midterm elections will depend on voter turnout. Thune's comments come as polling indicates that the war and its effects on living costs, particularly gas prices, are unpopular among voters, posing challenges for the GOP in the upcoming elections in November.
In a Fox News interview, Thune remarked that many Senate races are highly competitive, noting that issues of affordability and energy costs are pivotal in campaigns. He mentioned that the Iran war is overshadowing other issues. Thune highlighted that President Donald Trump is actively working to mobilize voters who support him. However, he advised candidates in battleground states like Michigan and Maine to focus on their individual campaigns and local issues rather than national trends.
Thune stated, "I think for each of these candidates, whether it’s Maine or Michigan, you’ve got an electorate that isn’t homogeneous. You’ve got to appeal to the people in your state. For that, you have to be your own candidate." He emphasized the importance of connecting with voters on state-specific matters and avoiding the nationalization of elections.
He also pointed out the necessity of appealing to independent voters, citing Michigan Senate candidate Mike Rogers as an example of a candidate who is establishing his own identity in a state that does not traditionally vote Republican. Thune further commented on Senator Susan Collins's reelection campaign in Maine, noting her established brand as an asset.
Thune expressed concern regarding the Senate race in Texas, where Attorney General Ken Paxton is facing a challenging campaign against Democrat James Talarico. Despite this, he expressed optimism that Republican candidates are gaining momentum after facing difficulties over the summer related to the Iran war and other issues. Thune also mentioned that candidates like el Sayed in Michigan, who lean towards socialist policies, may drive voters to the Republican side.
Thune noted that historically, voters from the party out of power tend to exhibit higher intensity and enthusiasm, but he believes this trend is shifting in favor of Republicans. He stated, "We’re seeing our voters start to come home, and I think that really helps us in these margin-of-error races. And most polling underestimates Republican turnout historically. It’s just a fact. So if we’re in a margin-of-error situation right now, we feel pretty good about our chances."
He concluded by asserting that while some factors are beyond the control of candidates, they can focus on what they can manage, highlighting the quality and resources of Republican candidates in key areas. Thune remarked that these candidates are capable of attracting Democratic voters who may feel disillusioned by the far-left policies of some Democratic candidates, suggesting that the elections will present voters with clear choices in competitive races.