The public’s dour view about the country’s direction is a concerning trend for President Joe Biden and congressional Democrats before next year’s midterm elections. However, the polling data suggest it won’t be easy for Republicans to capitalize.

Biden’s flagging job approval numbers have become fodder for political reporters amid the persistent COVID-19 pandemic and the botched Afghanistan withdrawal. But right direction-wrong track questions — meaning the number of Americans who think the country is headed in the right direction, compared to those who believe it’s on the wrong track — suggest Biden and Democrats will have to message carefully before the 2022 cycle. Meanwhile, Republicans are struggling with their brand.