Senate Republicans have chosen to extend their time in Washington next week to take up a bill aimed at shielding Americans from rising electricity costs tied to the data center boom. The move comes less than 40 days before the November midterm elections as the party works to address voter concerns over affordability.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune announced the decision after internal discussions highlighted the need for tangible action. Vulnerable members including Sen. Jon Husted of Ohio pushed colleagues to stay and deliver results on costs rather than recess early. The House already passed the Ratepayer Protection Act by a 417-3 vote last week.

The legislation would require state utility regulators to consider whether large electricity users such as data centers should cover the incremental costs of new power infrastructure. Republicans view the measure as a way to show voters they are focused on pocketbook issues amid spikes in gas and grocery prices.

Sen. John Kennedy of Louisiana publicly criticized the lack of prior action on cost-of-living matters. Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri called for additional steps including a possible suspension of the federal gas tax and caps on insulin prices. Sen. Susan Collins of Maine has also advocated for related affordability votes.

The push reflects broader Republican worries that economic pressures, including those linked to the ongoing conflict with Iran, are eroding support in key states. Party leaders have blamed Democratic obstruction for blocking faster progress on relief measures. Democrats have already signaled opposition to the data center bill, describing it as insufficient.

With the House having departed for the campaign trail, the Senate's extra session stands out as a targeted effort to bolster the party's message on the economy heading into the elections.