Early voting for the US midterm elections has started in several states today, marking a significant phase in the campaign for control of Congress. Virginia has opened early in-person voting, while Minnesota, Idaho, and South Dakota are allowing voters to cast absentee ballots in person.
The campaign is increasingly focused on the cost of living and the continuing war in Iran. High gas prices and low approval ratings for President Donald Trump are adding to the challenges for Republicans, who face risks to their control of both the House and Senate in the 3 November elections.
The Wall Street Journal reports that mortgage rates are nearing 7%, consumer prices rose 3.4% in the year to August, and gas prices are close to their highest levels since 2022. The conflict in Iran has entered its seventh month, continuing to disrupt regional shipping and put pressure on global energy prices.