OpenCampaign

Economy

Economy, prices and affordability

As the 2026 midterms approach, the economy is front and center for voters nationally and in the D.C. political conversation, with particular focus on prices, affordability, and which party better handles economic policy; neither party holds a clear advantage in public views.

What should be the top economic priority for leaders heading into the 2026 elections?

How important is this to you?

Sources

Pew Research Center — https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2026/07/23/as-the-2026-midterms-approach-economy-is-front-and-center
By a wide margin, voters most want candidates running for Congress to talk about economic issues – with many specifically mentioning prices and affordability.
CBS Mornings / Ed O'Keefe — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsdBO83yv1Q
2026 could bring a whole new set of challenges for the White House... from the economy to the midterms... have a really poor perception of the economy.
Positions on this issue  ·  liberal → conservative
  1. Heavy government action on prices, wages, and cost-of-living relief programs
  2. Targeted relief for households plus public investment to lower key costs
  3. Mix of fiscal support and private-sector growth measures on affordability
  4. Focus on deregulation and supply-side steps to reduce prices over time
  5. Minimize federal spending intervention and let markets correct inflation