Republicans worry Congress chances slipping; Trump campaign plans to change that

Republicans are expressing growing concern over their prospects of maintaining control of Congress in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. Factors contributing to this anxiety include voter discontent regarding rising prices and the ongoing, unpopular war in Iran. Additionally, internal party disagreements and challenges related to immigration enforcement have reportedly hindered legislative progress and overshadowed Republican messaging efforts. Some strategists also acknowledge that the party typically faces an uphill battle in midterm elections when holding the White House.

In response to these diminishing hopes, the Trump campaign is developing a strategy to bolster Republican chances. This plan includes President Trump increasing his campaign presence, with intentions to hold weekly rallies in key battleground districts to energize his base. The campaign is also preparing to inject millions of dollars from Trump's personal PAC into supporting vulnerable Republican candidates. A core component of their approach is to mobilize the "MAGA" voter coalition that proved successful in 2024 and focus on issues like the economy, crime, and border security. However, some within the party reportedly worry that Trump's increased involvement might have come too late.