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Democrats Shift Focus to Medicare and Social Security in Midterm Campaign

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As the midterm elections approach, Democrats have begun shifting their focus from abortion to entitlement benefits, particularly Medicare and Social Security, in an attempt to appeal to undecided voters. This strategic move comes as Republicans have gained confidence in their efforts to retake the House, with the battle for control of the narrowly divided Senate appearing to be a true toss-up. Democrats believe that emphasizing the threat to these popular programs could help sway older voters, who are a crucial demographic in the election.

Democrats have begun to talk more about Medicare and Social Security, with the share of Democratic ads mentioning abortion decreasing by 10 percentage points from its peak of close to 50 percent in early October. According to an analysis of social media posts, newsletters, and TV ads, Democratic candidates in tight races have been discussing the importance of these programs more frequently.

Key Takeaways:

  • Democrats have shifted their focus from abortion to entitlement benefits in the midterm campaign.
  • The share of Democratic ads mentioning abortion has decreased by 10 percentage points since early October.
  • Democratic candidates in tight races have been discussing the importance of Medicare and Social Security more frequently.
  • Republicans have become increasingly confident in their efforts to retake the House.
  • The battle for control of the Senate appears to be a true toss-up.
  • Democrats believe that emphasizing the threat to Medicare and Social Security could help sway older voters.
  • Republicans have proposed changes to Medicare, including increasing the eligibility age and repealing federal subsidies for "bad debt."
  • The Food and Drug Administration is pushing back against health providers prescribing abortion medication to women who are not pregnant.

Statistics:

  • The share of Democratic ads mentioning abortion decreased by 10 percentage points since early October.
  • 69% of infants who received the Pfizer RSV vaccine were protected from developing severe symptoms.
  • The vaccine was 69% effective in preventing severe cases of illness that required medical attention over six months.

Sources:

  • Rachel Roubein; McKenzie Beard
  • The Washington Post
  • AdImpact
  • ProPublica
  • Vanity Fair
  • The Bipartisan Policy Center
  • The American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS)

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