RealClearPolitics had Democrats leading Republicans by 8.1 percentage points in the 2026 generic congressional vote. Democrats lie at 49.8% with Republicans at 41.7%.
Paul Teller, president of Teller Strategies, spoke on American Family Radio (AFR)’s “Jenna Ellis in the Morning” program, breaking down why campaigns win when they pivot from personality clashes to concrete differences.
“Every person couldn't define socialism if forced to. We know it's bad. People know it's bad. In terms of what it is, what exactly is bad?... and so you're much better off talking about the issues,” Teller says.
He points out that voters respond when campaigns highlight tangible policy contrasts — like parental rights and economic control — rather than relying on buzzwords that don't appear on the ballot.
"In most places in America, the word socialist is not on the ballot, but the word Democrat is, right? So, we should be out there kind of saying the Democrats do X, Y, and Z, right? They're fine with taking away parental rights, etc. etc.," Teller says.
With control of Congress on the line, strategists say the winning formula for November is clear: focus on team branding, defend foundational values, and keep the spotlight on the issues impacting everyday voters.
On the last night of the first-ever Republican midterm convention, President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance called on the voters.
According to NPR, Vance urged people to recognize the administration’s achievements the last 18 months and vote for Republicans even if there is an issue or policy they do not agree with.
“Don't give the country over to a bunch of crazy people because you happen to disagree with us on a policy issue here or there,” Vance pleaded to the voters. “We have done a lot, my friends, and we can do a lot more if we fight together.”
Meanwhile, Trump asked for people to vote in November as if he was on the ballot.
