Reclaiming Affordability: 2026 midterms may be cost of living referendum

Published April 3, 2026 8:00am ET



With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, congressional Republicans have limited time to address the mounting affordability crisis. As the cost of living ranks as the top issue on voters’ minds, the midterm elections risk becoming a referendum on pocketbook pressures.

Women, the largest voting bloc in the country, are particularly attuned to these challenges. That’s why the Washington Examiner partnered with Independent Women this week for an op-ed series, Reclaiming Affordability, featuring policy experts with realistic solutions.

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