Economy and cost of living
Illinois and national 2026 midterm coverage identifies the economy as a top voter concern that Senate and other candidates must address, including economic challenges facing residents as control of Congress and key Illinois seats are contested.
What economic approach should Illinois leaders prioritize for Chicago-area residents?
How OpenCampaign quiz-takers stand on this issue
No quiz question covers this exact issue — showing responses to the closest one, Business and Consumers.
28% call it a high-priority issue (rating it 7+ out of 10).
- Liberal5%
- Lean liberal22%
- Moderate30%
- Lean conservative28%
- Conservative15%
Where do you stand?
What economic approach should Illinois leaders prioritize for Chicago-area residents?
How important is this to you?
✓ You told us where you stand
Sources
Chicago Tonight Senate forum — https://www.pbs.org/video/march-9-2026-full-show-cvyb7n
The next senator will inherit a large agenda with issues ranging from foreign policy and immigration to the economy and education. ... addressing these economic challenges that bedevil them.
Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/event/2026-US-midterm-elections
Key issues in the 2026 U.S. midterm elections include the economy and immigration, which have traditionally been strong issues for Pres. Donald Trump.
Positions on this issue · liberal → conservative
- Large public investment, stronger safety nets, and higher taxes on corporations/wealthy
- Expand targeted relief, raise wages, and invest in jobs while taxing high earners more
- Balance growth incentives with selective cost-of-living assistance
- Cut regulations and taxes to spur business growth and wages
- Aggressive tax and spending cuts plus deregulation to lower costs quickly