Republican National Committee Chairman Joe Gruters is projecting that Republicans will retain control of both chambers of Congress in November, putting the GOP at 220 House seats and 53 Senate seats.
Gruters made the prediction on Wednesday during an appearance on NewsNation’s “The Hill,” arguing that Republicans have stronger candidates and more financial resources heading into the midterm elections. He also pointed to President Donald Trump’s planned campaign activity as a major part of the party’s strategy.
“Bet on us,” Gruters said, adding that Republicans intend to “barnstorm the country” with rallies and campaign events before Election Day.
Gruters’ projection comes as Republicans face a closely contested midterm environment. Republicans currently hold narrow majorities in both chambers, with 219 House seats and 53 Senate seats.
Recent polling has shown challenges for the Republican Party, particularly on issues involving the economy and the war in Iran. A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted this month found Trump’s overall approval rating at 32%, a career low, while 17% approved of his handling of the cost of living. The poll also found Democrats leading Republicans nationally by 8 percentage points on the generic congressional ballot.
Some Republican candidates have also taken positions on the Iran conflict that differ from Trump's. Michigan Senate candidate Mike Rogers and Iowa Senate candidate Ashley Hinson have called for an end to the war, while both campaigns have emphasized the economic effects of higher fuel prices.
Gruters rejected the idea that Republicans should distance themselves from Trump’s agenda, arguing that candidates should instead emphasize the administration's policies. “If you lean into the policies that this president has pushed, you’ll win,” he said during the interview.
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