New polling shows Democratic candidates leading or closely matching Republican opponents in five closely watched Senate races, defying expectations in districts that have long favored the GOP. The results suggest Republicans are struggling in traditionally conservative strongholds, signaling a potential shift in the midterm landscape. Analysts cite the findings as further evidence of a challenging electoral climate for the party. The data, released by multiple reputable polling organizations, underscores the unpredictability of this year’s Senate contests.
Senate Democratic candidates are edging out or polling neck and neck with their GOP counterparts in five competitive Senate races this cycle — the latest indicator that Republicans are facing a tough midterm environment in even more traditionally redder areas, according to new surveys of the races. Polling released by The New York Times and...