WELD COUNTY, Colorado — The touch-and-go race for House control in the Nov. 3 midterm elections could very well be decided in places like this wind-swept stretch of Interstate 25. Specifically, at gas stations in this rapidly growing area north of Denver, which is evolving from rural, agricultural roots into a key commuter region.

In Weld County, along the Wyoming and Nebraska state lines, spiking gas prices are causing sticker shock among drivers. Six-plus months out from Election Day, that puts increased pressure on Republicans, as Democrats claw for the three seats — and in their view, hopefully many more — needed to win the House majority.