Key Facts

• With less than 70 days before the midterm elections, some Democrats in red states reject Biden and Harris’s support.
• Iowa Senate candidate Josh Turek and gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand declined Harris and Biden's help.
• Alaska Senate candidate Mary Peltola is focusing on local support and not seeking endorsements from mainland politicians.
• These candidates aim to attract independent and moderate Republican voters by distancing themselves from the national Democratic brand.
• Retaining the Senate is vital for Democrats as Republicans currently hold a slim majority.
• Democratic strategist James Carville noted that Democrats are trying to move past the 2024 election and that Biden’s health issues may limit his campaign appearances.
• There is a general sense among some voters of disillusionment with established Democratic leaders and the party brand.
• Historically, parties sometimes avoid high-profile endorsements in tough areas to distance candidates from unpopular national figures.