Republican Candidates Distance Themselves From Trump Heading Into Midterms

41 of 62 Republican candidates in competitive House and Senate races have distanced themselves from President Trump on policy or downplayed ties to him, a Reuters review of voting records, campaign materials and public statements found.

• 23 of 62 competitive races feature candidates who diverged from Trump on policy.
• 12 races saw splits over the Iran conflict, with candidates voting to limit war powers.
• A dozen candidates removed Trump's name, image or endorsements from campaign websites.
• Trump's approval rating stands at 32%, a career low, per a Reuters/Ipsos poll.

Why it matters: Republicans in competitive districts are trying to attract independent voters without triggering a public break with Trump, who still commands loyalty among core supporters and has historically punished defectors through primary challenges and public pressure.

• Among independent voters, Democrats lead Republicans 37% to 21%, per Reuters/Ipsos.
• Republican strategist Ron Bonjean said candidates "are reflecting voter attitudes in these races" and must show a break when voters are not with Trump.

How 25 sources split on this story

Where they split: The core dispute is whether distancing helps Republican candidates win without fatally undermining Trump's standing as party leader heading into November.

What’s next: Trump has continued holding rallies, insisting they are helping Republicans win competitive races.

• Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is skipping a Trump rally in San Antonio, citing prior campaign events.
• November 3 is the midterm election date that will determine control of Congress.
• Whether distancing from Trump in competitive races translates to actual vote gains among independents.
• How Trump responds if Republicans who avoided him win — or lose — on election night.