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In Focus

The GOP candidate quality problem has a name: Michael Whatley

By Taylor Millard
Published Updated
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In Focus delivers deeper coverage of the political, cultural, and ideological issues shaping America. Published daily by senior writers and experts, these in-depth pieces go beyond the headlines to give readers the full picture. You can find our full list of In Focus pieces here.

The last week has seen a bevy of bad news for the GOP with regard to 2026’s Senate contests. The Cook Political Report shifted Iowa and Texas to toss-up status. President Donald Trump’s national approval rating sits at 33% according to Reuters-Ipsos polling. Nate Silver now gives Democrats a 51% chance of retaking the Senate.

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2026 Elections Approval Ratings Michael Whatley Nate Silver North Carolina Republican Party Senate