GOP Senator Says Midterms “Shouldn’t” Be Close

Sen. Ron Johnson is delivering a sharp warning to American voters as the 2026 midterm elections approach, arguing that the country faces a critical decision about its political future, economic stability, and national security.

During a Wednesday appearance on Newsmax’s Ed Henry: The Big Take, the Wisconsin Republican criticized the Democratic Party’s direction and expressed concern about what could happen if Democrats regain control of Congress in November.

Johnson argued that voters should carefully consider the differences between President Donald Trump’s agenda and the policies being promoted by Democratic leaders.

“In a sane world, these elections wouldn’t even be close,” Johnson declared.

The senator went on to accuse Democrats of moving too far to the political left, claiming that socialist ideas and progressive activists have gained increasing influence within the party.

His comments come as Republicans and Democrats prepare for a closely watched election that could determine control of Congress for the remainder of Trump’s presidency.

Johnson Raises Concerns About Iran and Democratic Opposition

One of Johnson’s strongest criticisms involved Iran and its recent attempt to influence American public opinion ahead of the elections.

The senator pointed to a September 29 open letter from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps urging American voters to reject Trump’s foreign policy.

The Iranian military organization criticized the president’s approach to Tehran and encouraged Americans to support changes in U.S. policy toward Iran and the Middle East.

Johnson interpreted the message as evidence that America’s adversaries would prefer a different political direction in Washington.

“Americans don’t need to look any further than the fact that Iran is endorsing Democrats. That ought to tell you something,” Johnson said.

However, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard did not explicitly endorse the Democratic Party or individual Democratic candidates. Its letter focused on opposing Trump’s policies and encouraging Americans to reconsider their government’s actions in the Middle East.

The distinction is important, although Johnson maintained that the foreign government’s opposition to Trump should raise concerns among American voters.

He also accused Democrats of prioritizing political opportunities over the administration’s efforts to confront threats abroad.

Those accusations reflect Johnson’s political assessment rather than established evidence that Democratic lawmakers are cooperating with America’s enemies.

Gas Prices and the Economy Become Major Election Issues

Johnson also turned his attention to the economy, warning that Democratic leadership could bring back policies he believes have hurt American households.

The Wisconsin senator pointed to the soaring gasoline prices Americans experienced during former President Joe Biden’s administration.

In June 2022, the national average price of regular gasoline briefly exceeded $5 per gallon, placing additional financial pressure on families, retirees, commuters, and small businesses.

Johnson blamed Democratic energy policies and restrictions on fossil fuel development for contributing to those costs.

Federal energy data, however, show that multiple factors drove the 2022 price surge, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, rising crude oil prices, limited gasoline inventories, and reduced refinery production.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, gasoline prices eventually declined substantially during the second half of that year.

Nevertheless, Johnson believes energy policy remains an important dividing line between Republicans and Democrats.

For many American households, gasoline prices are more than a political talking point. Higher transportation costs can affect grocery prices, delivery expenses, household budgets, and the overall cost of living.

The issue is especially significant for older Americans living on fixed incomes, who may have less flexibility when everyday expenses increase.

Energy prices have again become a major concern during the ongoing conflict involving Iran, creating additional economic challenges for the Trump administration ahead of November’s elections.

Johnson Warns Democrats Could Focus on Investigating Trump

Another concern raised by Johnson involves how Democrats might use congressional power if they win control of the House or Senate.

The senator argued that Democratic candidates are emphasizing potential investigations and impeachment proceedings against President Trump instead of presenting solutions to economic challenges.

“They’re promising investigations and impeachment of President Trump,” Johnson said.

Johnson suggested that a Democratic congressional majority could devote considerable attention to confronting the White House, potentially creating additional political conflict during the final two years of Trump’s term.

Democrats, meanwhile, have campaigned on concerns about affordability, government accountability, health care, and the administration’s foreign policy decisions.

If control of Congress changes hands, lawmakers could gain additional authority to conduct oversight hearings, issue subpoenas, and investigate administration officials.

Republicans argue that voters should consider whether such investigations would distract Washington from addressing household expenses, border security, and other national priorities.

Democrats maintain that congressional oversight is an essential responsibility regardless of which party controls the presidency.

Wisconsin Governor’s Race Could Be Decided by a Narrow Margin

Johnson also discussed the political landscape in his home state of Wisconsin, where Republicans are hoping to win the governor’s office.

He praised Republican gubernatorial nominee Rep. Tom Tiffany and expressed confidence in his ability to lead the state.

“I know Tom is going to be an extraordinary governor, should the people of Wisconsin elect him,” Johnson said.

Still, the senator acknowledged that winning statewide elections in Wisconsin remains difficult.

He pointed to his own narrow reelection victory in 2022, when he defeated Democratic challenger Mandela Barnes by roughly 27,000 votes.

Wisconsin has repeatedly demonstrated how closely divided the American electorate can be, with major statewide contests frequently decided by small margins.

That political reality means Republicans cannot assume victory, even in races where their candidates enjoy strong support from conservative voters.

Johnson emphasized that Wisconsin Republicans have experienced both victories and defeats in competitive elections.

“So it’s going to be a tough race,” he acknowledged.

Republicans Face a High-Stakes November Election

With Election Day scheduled for November 3, both political parties are working to convince voters that their approach offers the best future for the country.

Republicans are emphasizing national security, energy production, immigration enforcement, and support for Trump’s broader economic agenda.

Democrats are focusing on affordability, health care, government accountability, and criticism of the administration’s handling of the Iran conflict.

Recent reporting indicates that some Republican candidates in competitive congressional races are also distancing themselves from certain Trump administration policies, reflecting concerns about how independent voters may respond in November.

For Johnson, however, the election represents a larger debate over the direction of the Democratic Party and the future of conservative priorities in Washington.

His warning comes at a time when Republicans are fighting to preserve their congressional majorities while Democrats pursue opportunities to regain political influence.

The outcome could have major consequences for federal spending, energy regulations, immigration policy, national security decisions, and potential investigations involving the president.

Ultimately, Johnson believes voters should judge both parties by their records and consider which policies will best protect American prosperity and national interests.

Whether voters agree with his assessment remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the battle for control of Congress is entering its final weeks, and the political stakes are substantial.

For President Trump, congressional Republicans, and Democratic challengers, November’s election could determine Washington’s direction for the next two years.