Republicans reckon with energy price backlash in election losses

Losses in the off-cycle elections this week are prompting reflection among Republicans about energy policy, as Democrats won by emphasizing affordability concerns, which will remain a top concern for voters in the 2026 midterm elections.

The Democratic Party swept gubernatorial elections in Virginia and New Jersey on Tuesday, and also secured several key down-ballot races in New York, Georgia, and Pennsylvania. They highlighted skyrocketing electricity prices and other rising costs of living in such a way that some Republicans wished their own candidates had followed suit.