Meet the ‘independent voters’ who will likely decide which party triumphs in the 2026 midterm elections

Republicans and Democrats need to make inroads with independent voters. But the themes that motivate the party faithful may not sit well with independents, who tend to recoil against partisan rancor.

By: Julio Borquez, University of Michigan-Dearborn, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: October 8, 2026

Words: 979

Last Updated: 1 week, 2 days ago

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By Julio Borquez, University of Michigan-Dearborn

As midterm elections near, Democrats enjoy advantages in national “generic ballot” polling, suggesting they may secure majorities in the House of Representative or Senate, if not both chambers.

But the reality is that partisan control on Capitol Hill will be determined by just a handful of competitive House and Senate contests. The Cook Political Report currently classifies only 22 House campaigns and only seven Senate campaigns …

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