Rising Energy Costs Strain US Households in Swing States Ahead of Midterm Elections

Households in key US swing states are facing significantly higher costs for power and gasoline, with combined spending up 13% to 17% in the first seven months of 2026 compared to a year prior. This budget strain, linked to the Iran war and increased electricity consumption by tech firms, is a major concern for voters ahead of the midterm elections, with little immediate relief in sight.