US midterm elections are entering their decisive phase, with attention shifting from whether Democrats can produce a wave to how large it might be. Both parties are pouring money into closely fought Republican-held districts as voters prepare to cast their ballots next week.
Democrats and Republicans are each spending more than six figures on final messaging in 70 districts, according to an analysis of the most competitive contests. The scale of the investment reflects the possibility that relatively small changes in turnout could reshape control of Congress.
Former president Barack Obama campaigned for Democrats in Georgia, focusing on the cost of living and arguing that Donald Trump’s policies were contributing to higher prices. Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff is expected to win his Senate race, while the contest for governor remains uncertain.
Millions of Americans have already voted. Early figures point to increased turnout among Latino and younger voters in Democratic areas, along with people who do not usually participate in primaries. The pattern has left uncertainty over the make-up of the final electorate, with Republicans expected to depend heavily on polling-day turnout.
A federal judge has rejected an emergency request from the Justice Department to stop the processing of ballots cast by 20,000 people identified by the department as “likely” non-citizens. The department has filed notice that it will appeal.
Voters across the country will also decide on 145 statewide ballot measures, covering issues including abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, taxes and voting. The contests come as the US receives fresh figures on economic growth and inflation before the election, with the results expected to influence the political debate over household finances.
