'Considerably more optimistic' on Senate; party draws comparisons to 2006 midterms

Senate Democratic Floor Leader Chuck Schumer [EPA]
Senate Democratic Floor Leader Chuck Schumer [EPA]

Democratic Party leaders expressed confidence Friday that their party is on track to reclaim majorities in both chambers of Congress in November's midterm elections.

Senate Democratic Floor Leader Chuck Schumer told The Washington Post on Friday (local time) that "if the election were held today, we would be the majority."

Schumer said he was "considerably more optimistic" about the party's chances of retaking the Senate than he had been a few months ago, adding that the current electoral environment bears a striking resemblance to the 2006 midterms.

Those midterms, held during former President George W. Bush's tenure, saw Democrats sweep both chambers amid widespread voter frustration over Bush and the Iraq War.

Democratic leaders attribute the party's recent momentum primarily to economic concerns.

House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark said voters feel the Democratic Party is paying more attention to their economic struggles, including the rising cost of living. "That is what is moving the polling numbers," she said.

Democrats have taken particular note of improved polling results since Labor Day — not only in key battleground districts but also in traditionally Republican-leaning areas.

The party believes rising gasoline prices stemming from the Iran war, broadly elevated inflation, and President Donald Trump's low approval rating are all weighing on Republicans.


newday@heraldcorp.com