What Key Factor Led Democrats To Over-Perform in the Midterm Election?

Even democrats are surprised at their victories in the midterm election. Pundits are already throwing in their theories as to the answer. To me, there was one issue that trumped crime, inflation, and the border crisis. It was the fear factor. Both parties tried to scare Americans into voting for their candidates. I guess believing that republicans are coming after democracy and your kids was enough.