(PatriotPostNews.com) — While American voters are anticipating the high-profile rematch between Democratic President Joe Biden and his GOP predecessor Donald Trump, contenders for the House of Representatives are figuring out how closely they should identify with their respective party’s presidential candidate.
Three candidates in particular—Rep. Mary Peltola, a Democrat from Alaska, along with Democratic Rep. Mike Levin and GOP Rep. Mike Garcia of California—are campaigning on local issues in an apparent effort to avoid the controversy surrounding both candidates for president.
Peltola has focused her campaigns on fishing industry issues, while Levin discusses sand and Garcia gas taxes. The three candidates, among others, are each seeking reelection in districts that are closely watched due to their capacity to dictate which party will control the House in the fall. Peltola has expressed that she is “angry and frustrated” with the Democratic president, specifically related to policies about the border and liquefied natural gas.
Levin has noted that his own supporters “have strong feelings” about both candidates. He moderately added that he would prefer Biden’s “decent” and “accomplished” track record over the “narcissistic, chaotic Trump.”
Meanwhile, on the Republican side of the aisle, Garcia described Trump’s suggestion of rallying for GOP candidates via phone calls as “a gracious offer.” But his conservative colleague, New York Rep. Mike Lawler, has not jumped at the proposal, as he emphasizes his “focus” being “the direction of the country” rather than the former president’s endorsement.
The uncertainty of how to interact with the Biden and Trump campaigns comes in the wake of their first presidential debate, which will be held on June 27.
Key issues have caused division among political parties in recent months, with lawmakers splitting votes to side with the opposing party. These issues include international conflict, such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas war, both of which have left lawmakers and citizens alike in heated debate and disagreement.
Similarly, opposite approaches to border security and immigration have further divided the support for both Biden and Trump, even within their own parties. Other major issues that have voter attention include abortion, healthcare, taxes, and Supreme Court judicial appointees.
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