US midterm races hinge on cost-of-living worries as Iran war sends fuel prices higher

Elections for all 435 House seats and a third of the Senate take place November 3, with economic anxiety over prices dominating voter concerns.

• Campaign ad spending reached a record $11.6 billion, surpassing the 2024 presidential election total.
• Gasoline prices exceeded $4.29 a gallon, up over 40% since the Iran war began in late February, while diesel topped $6.50.
• Obama said Iran held no nuclear weapons during his presidency, adding that diplomacy demanded no missile launches.
• Trump floated a $5,000 payment to American adults and a cap on credit card interest rates if Republicans keep Congress.