Record Fuel Prices Drive Democratic Midterm Sweep

Record diesel and gasoline prices on Election Day drove voters toward Democrats in the midterms. Nearly nine in ten voters cited the cost of living as a crucial factor in their decisions.

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A driver operates the diesel pump at a truck stop in Dunnigan, California, U.S., September 28, 2026. REUTERS/Fred Greaves/File Photo

Record diesel and gasoline prices drove United States voters toward Democrats in Tuesday's midterms, with cost-of-living pressures deciding races nationwide. The opposition swept majorities in both the Senate and House, dealing a rebuke to the administration. Nearly 9 in 10 voters identified living costs as a crucial factor in exit polls.