Trust in Republicans shaken in several US states traditionally seen as party strongholds
Ahead of the US congressional midterm elections, cracks in voter trust have appeared in several states that were long considered safe Republican territory. President Donald Trump is campaigning actively, but it is unclear whether this will help his party.
With little time left before the US congressional midterm elections, which are held midway through a presidential term and determine the makeup of Congress, tension between the Republican and Democratic parties is steadily rising.
Several states that Republicans have so far regarded as impregnable strongholds are now showing cracks in trust. In places where the party's support once seemed secure, it is no longer as certain.
Trump on the campaign trail
US President Donald Trump, a Republican, is travelling intensively to campaign events. However, there is no firm assurance that his involvement will boost the popularity of his party. In other words, the president's activity does not by itself guarantee a better result for Republicans.
Why it matters
The outcome of the midterms will affect the balance of power in Congress and, with it, the president's ability to carry out his policies. For that reason, shifts in trust even in traditionally Republican states are seen as a significant signal ahead of the vote.
