Republicans revive crime messaging in midterm campaigns

Republican candidates are emphasizing crime, public disorder and illegal immigration in midterm campaigns as voters express concern about the cost of living and the war with Iran. The strategy aims to energize the party’s base and win over moderate voters, while Democrats counter with candidates who have law enforcement backgrounds and proposals to fund public safety.

The message is appearing in races across the country, including contests for governor in Michigan and other states and congressional races in several states. Michigan Republican Michael Bouchard has criticized his opponent, former prosecutor Christina Hines, as supporting “soft on crime” policies; Hines says she will prioritize public safety and prosecute corruption in Washington.

Some Republicans question whether crime will be a major voter concern. A September AP-NORC poll found 48% of U.S. adults approved of President Donald Trump’s handling of border security, down from 55% a year earlier. The campaign ads have also drawn criticism from Black political leaders, who called them racist and reminiscent of past Republican appeals to white voters.

Read the full story at wtop.com.