In the run-up to next week’s midterm elections, House Democrats are employing a strategy centered on the rising cost of living, aiming to flip key districts and seize control of the House of Representatives. Citing the central role that economic concerns played in President Donald Trump’s successful 2024 campaign, Democrats have made affordability their core message, seeking to rally voters dissatisfied with high prices on everyday goods and services.

At a rally in Peekskill, New York—a competitive district along the Hudson River—supporters chanted in anticipation of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-New York) becoming the next House speaker. Democrats need to net a minimum of three seats to gain a House majority but are hopeful of securing a significantly larger margin. The party has been recruiting candidates with broad appeal in swing districts, many with diverse professional and life experiences, as part of an effort to connect with independent and moderate voters.

Since November 2024, when Republicans consolidated control of the Senate and defended their House majority, Democrats have revamped their messaging by focusing on economic issues rather than social ones like abortion, which they say did not resonate as strongly with some key constituencies. Rising costs connected to Trump-era tariffs and international tensions, including the ongoing war in Iran, have kept economic concerns at the forefront of voters’ minds. Polls show that a larger share of Americans now trust Democrats over Republicans on economic matters, with one recent survey indicating 37% trust Democrats more on the economy compared to 28% for Republicans.

Republicans, meanwhile, counter that inflation and price increases are primarily the result of policies by the Biden administration and accuse Democrats of pursuing so-called socialist policies that could exacerbate economic challenges. National Republican Congressional Committee Chairman Richard Hudson (R-North Carolina) said Democrats “wrecked this economy” and warned voters that recovery takes time. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-Louisiana) has also challenged the accuracy of polls predicting Democratic gains.

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has acknowledged mixed results from its recruitment and primary intervention efforts. Several candidates favored by party leadership failed to advance to the general election, raising concerns about competitiveness in certain races. Nevertheless, Democratic leaders emphasize the appeal of their diverse candidate slate, which includes combat veterans, health care professionals, and community figures who are positioned to address affordability issues credibly.

Some Democratic candidates have taken positions divergent from the national party’s platform on issues such as immigration and transgender rights to better align with their districts and to preempt Republican attacks. For example, Nancy Lacore, running to flip a seat in South Carolina, highlights her support for border security and protections for girls’ sports, while focusing her campaign on economic concerns like wages and costs.

Despite their optimism, Democrats acknowledge the limitations they would face if they regain the House minority, especially with Trump expected to remain in the White House. Control of the Senate appears more secure for Republicans, reducing prospects for sweeping legislative action. Jeffries said the party is developing plans to address affordability on issues including housing, health care, groceries, energy, and caregiving once in power and aims to prioritize these in their first 100 days.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-California) expressed hope for a strong Democratic showing, potentially netting up to 30 additional seats. Even so, Democrats are realistic about their legislative prospects in a politically divided Washington, where oversight of the Trump administration may become their main focus should they regain the majority.