Midterm Election Landscape Shifts Amid Foreign Policy Turmoil

WASHINGTON — Political analysts say the U.S. military operation in Venezuela is likely to have ripple effects on the 2026 midterm elections. With state legislative elections scheduled for November and control of dozens of chambers at stake, foreign policy and national security are emerging as flashpoints in campaign messaging. Republican candidates are framing the strike as strength on defense, while Democrats are highlighting concerns about oversight and legal authority. Polls indicate that health care costs and inflation remain top voter concerns, but foreign affairs may gain traction as news of the Venezuela operation continues to unfold.