On 9 October 2026 the Guardian unveiled its 2026 midterm voter panel, a snapshot of nine Americans from different regions and points on the political spectrum. With the 3 November elections looming – when control of the House, Senate and 36 gubernatorial seats will be decided – the interviewees spoke about the cost of living, immigration, the war in Iran and their faith in political leaders. Their comments offer a bipartisan window into the national mood just weeks before the vote.
Economic Pressures Shape Voter Mood
Many panellists pointed to household budgets as their primary worry. Justin Daniels, a