How to think about the midterms -- and the political moment the country is in

NPR examines the political environment heading into the midterms, arguing that President Trump’s 2024 mandate to bring down prices hasn’t produced relief for voters. It points to record-low approval and record-high opposition intensity, with inflation continuing and voters blaming Trump for rising costs since his second term began. The analysis says prices were directly affected by decisions including the war with Iran and Trump’s tariffs, while the economy is increasingly split: wealthy consumers benefit from AI-driven stock portfolios, while many regular Americans face inflation, a middling labor market, and interest rates that are creeping higher—making homes and cars harder to buy. It cites an NPR/PBS/Marist poll showing only 15% reporting improved finances. It also notes criticism of hard-line immigration enforcement, domestic spending cuts such as Medicaid and other health programs, and regulatory and workforce reductions, suggesting Democrats could gain control of the House and are within reach of winning the Senate.