Politics

Republicans emphasize crime and border security in midterm campaigns

Candidates focus on law enforcement amid voter concerns over living costs and foreign conflict

Updated Oct 6, 2026 · 13:14 UTC3 reports

The short version

Republican candidates across the nation are highlighting violent crime, public disorder, and illegal immigration in their midterm campaigns.[ABC News]
The messaging push comes as voters express frustration with the party over living costs and the war involving Iran.[ABC News]
GOP nominees in key gubernatorial contests such as Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Texas, and Wisconsin are targeting Democratic rivals over crime policies.[ABC News]
Questions remain over whether the issue will resonate, with some lawmakers expressing skepticism about voter priorities.[ABC News]

Republicans are focusing campaign strategies on violent crime, disorder, and illegal immigration amid voter dissatisfaction over the cost of living and the war with Iran.[ABC News]
House Speaker Mike Johnson asserted that the nation has reached its lowest violent crime rate in 126 years due to an emphasis on the rule of law.[ABC News]
National crime figures have broadly declined since the 1990s, interrupted by a temporary increase during the COVID-19 pandemic.[ABC News · Associated Press]
GOP gubernatorial nominees in states including Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Texas, and Wisconsin are criticizing Democratic opponents as weak on crime.[ABC News]
A September AP-NORC poll showed public approval of Donald Trump's border security handling dropped to 48%, down from 55% the previous year.[ABC News]

It is unclear whether crime messaging will effectively sway voters, as some Republicans like Senator Thom Tillis doubt it is a top issue this election cycle.[ABC News]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.