Rising fuel costs and the war with Iran are testing party unity in competitive congressional races.
By Haitian Tribune Staff
WASHINGTON — With November’s midterm elections approaching, some Republican candidates are seeking room to disagree with President Donald Trump on issues that have become difficult to defend on the campaign trail.
The pressure is especially visible in states where high diesel prices are hurting farmers and truckers. Republican lawmakers have urged the administration to consider restricting diesel exports to increase domestic supply. The White House, however, denied a report that it was preparing a 90-day export ban. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said a blanket ban was not under consideration and warned that it could raise other fuel prices.
Beef imports have created another political challenge. The administration expanded a temporary import quota in August, saying the measure would help lower ground beef prices. Some Republicans from agricultural areas face a competing concern: ranchers who fear additional imports could undercut their businesses.
The war with Iran has also opened a divide. Republican Senate candidates Mike Rogers of Michigan and Ashley Hinson of Iowa have called for a swift end to the conflict as voters contend with rising costs. Trump continues to defend the war as necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
For candidates in close races, the task is to address voters’ concerns while remaining aligned with a president who still leads the Republican Party. Whether that approach will satisfy voters may help determine control of Congress in November.
