Politico reports Republican doubts about retaining the House

Some senior Republicans privately regard retaining the House of Representatives as unlikely and are concentrating on defending the Senate, Politico reported on October 14. The White House and party leaders rejected claims that they were prepared to surrender their majority.

The outlet cited five lawmakers speaking anonymously. They described advertising resources moving towards Senate contests and efforts to limit losses in the lower chamber. Their assessments precede the vote and do not represent an election result.

Former representative Carlos Curbelo also voiced concern. He told the outlet that in recent weeks he had not heard private confidence in the party’s ability to retain the House.

Donald Trump said on October 13 that Republican enthusiasm remained high. The president nevertheless acknowledged that the incumbent president’s party traditionally loses seats in midterm elections.

Politico reported that Republican groups had withdrawn further support from some campaigns considered unwinnable. The examples included the Omaha district and campaigns in Iowa and New Jersey.

The midterm elections take place on November 3. In a comment relayed by RIA Novosti, University of South Florida associate professor Rob Mellen described Republican prospects in the Senate as more favourable. These assessments do not settle the eventual allocation of seats.