With President Biden's recent debate performance and subsequent polling downturn, the fight to preserve a Democratic majority in the Senate has become even more challenging. Democrats are facing a tough Senate election map, with multiple incumbents in swing states seeking re-election and holding a slim 51-49 majority over Republicans.
Historically, split-ticket voting across the presidency and the Senate was more common in the 1970s and 1980s, often benefiting Democrats. However, this practice has been on the decline in recent decades, posing challenges for vulnerable Democrats in the current political landscape.
Experts suggest that Senate Democrats in tough races may distance themselves from the presidential candidate if necessary to maintain their standing. Campaign strategies are likely to vary based on the state's political leanings, with candidates in swing states potentially taking different approaches than those in solidly red or blue states.
For instance, senators like Jon Tester from Montana, who has always positioned himself as somewhat independent of the national Democratic Party, may continue to do so in the upcoming election cycle. On the other hand, senators like Bob Casey from Pennsylvania may closely align themselves with President Biden's performance in the state.
Republican strategists have noted that elected Democrats, regardless of their seat's safety, may be hesitant to comment on President Biden's debate performance, highlighting the delicate balance they must strike in navigating their own campaigns.
