Reuters: Republican lawmakers are privately expressing concern that the Iran war and President Donald Trump’s rhetoric could hurt the party’s prospects in midterm elections, according to a report by NBC News.
While few have spoken publicly, discussions within private group chats and meetings reveal growing unease among members of Congress.
In one such exchange among the “Main Street Caucus” — a group of nearly 100 GOP lawmakers — Trump’s recent social media warning that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” drew alarm, the report said, citing three House Republicans with direct knowledge of the conversation.
One lawmaker questioned how such remarks would help those defending the administration’s costly military engagement with Iran, suggesting the rhetoric was not politically helpful.
“People were pissed,” one Republican lawmaker told NBC News.
Concerns are also tied to economic fallout, particularly fuel prices, which could influence voter sentiment.
“People vote with their pocketbooks,” another House Republican was quoted as saying. “Iran is gonna be an issue if gas prices don’t come down.”
The report also noted that several Republican strategists believe the party currently lacks a clear message or strategy to present to voters, adding to anxiety ahead of the elections.
