The United States midterm elections are just around the corner, and all eyes are on some key races that could potentially shape the political landscape of the country for the next few years. With so much at stake, it’s important to take a closer look at these races and the numbers behind them. From historic firsts to record-breaking fundraising, here’s a breakdown of the key races in the 2018 US midterm elections.
1. Historic Firsts
This year’s midterm elections have brought about some groundbreaking firsts. For the first time in history, more than 100 women have won their primaries for the US House of Representatives. This includes the first Native American and Muslim women to ever be elected to Congress. Additionally, a record number of LGBTQ candidates are running for office this year, with many of them poised to make history.
2. Record-Breaking Fundraising
The 2018 midterm elections have also seen an unprecedented amount of money being raised by candidates. According to the Center for Responsive Politics, candidates in this year’s races have raised a total of $2.5 billion, making it the most expensive midterm election in US history. This surge in fundraising can be attributed to the high level of interest and engagement in these key races.
3. Senate Showdown
One of the most closely watched races is the battle for control of the Senate. With the Republicans currently holding a slim majority, Democrats are hoping to flip enough seats to gain control. Out of the 35 Senate seats up for grabs, 26 of them are currently held by Democrats, making it an uphill battle for them. However, with a number of Republican incumbents facing tough challenges, the Democrats have a chance to pull off an upset and take back control of the Senate.
4. Governor’s Races
In addition to the Senate, the gubernatorial races are also crucial in this year’s midterm elections. Currently, Republicans hold a majority of governorships in the US, with 33 out of 50. However, Democrats are hoping to close that gap by flipping key states like Florida, Ohio, and Georgia. These races are not only important for the balance of power, but they also have a significant impact on policy decisions at the state level.
5. Battleground Districts
The US House of Representatives is also up for grabs in this year’s midterm elections, and there are a number of battleground districts that could determine the majority. These districts are considered toss-ups, meaning they could go either way, and both parties are investing heavily in these races. With Democrats needing to flip 23 seats to gain control, and Republicans trying to hold on to their majority, the outcome of these races will be crucial.
6. Voter Turnout
One key factor in any election is the voter turnout, and this year’s midterms are no exception. In the 2014 midterms, only 36.4% of eligible voters cast their ballots, the lowest turnout since World War II. However, there are signs that this year’s turnout could be significantly higher, with early voting numbers already breaking records in some states. This increased participation could have a major impact on the outcome of the key races.
7. Influence of Trump
The current political climate in the US has been heavily influenced by President Donald Trump, and his approval rating is a major factor in these key races. While some candidates have embraced Trump and his policies, others have distanced themselves from him in an effort to appeal to a wider range of voters. The outcome of these races will be a reflection of the country’s approval of the current administration.
The 2018 US midterm elections are shaping up to be one of the most consequential in recent history. With historic firsts, record-breaking fundraising, and closely contested races, there is a lot at stake for both parties. As we approach election day, it’s important for voters to educate themselves on the issues and candidates in order to make an informed decision. Every vote counts, and these key races by the numbers will determine the future of our country.
