House Republicans are reportedly in “triage mode” as the 2026 midterm elections approach, according to a new report. The shift reflects growing concern among GOP leaders over the party’s prospects in a climate where President Donald Trump’s approval rating remains historically low.
Recent polling from the Associated Press shows Trump with a 69 percent disapproval rating, prompting some Republicans to pivot from aggressive campaigning to damage control. The strategy includes reallocating resources away from races deemed difficult to win, such as contests against Congresswoman Mariannette Miller‑Meeks in Iowa, Tom Kean in New Jersey, and an open seat in Nebraska.
Other moves include halting a $30 million ad campaign intended to support Republican Senate candidate Michael Whatley in North Carolina and redirecting that money to Senator Roger Marshall’s re‑election effort in Kansas. GOP leadership has also poured significant funding into newly redrawn districts in Texas and Florida, with an anonymous aide noting that redistricting could be a key factor in minimizing losses or preserving the majority.
Despite the gloom, House Speaker Mike Johnson remains convinced that Republicans will keep control of the House. However, other GOP figures have expressed a more cautious outlook, aiming to keep the Democratic majority to no more than ten seats. President Trump has voiced his own concerns, promising $5,000 checks to Americans if Republicans win and highlighting roughly 35 to 40 key races at a recent Oklahoma rally.
