Fox News co-host Kayleigh McEnany said Wednesday that internal Democratic divisions over policy negotiations represent a strategic advantage for Republicans heading into the 2026 midterm elections.
McEnany made the comments during a segment on “Outnumbered,” where she discussed how Democrats’ concern about backlash from the party’s progressive wing could undermine their electoral positioning. She referenced anonymous Democratic senators who told The Hill they feared being criticized by their base if they reached bipartisan agreements.
What McEnany Said
“These people are so petrified of the same progressive left-wing flank that they have to shut down the government and can’t even get military families paid,” McEnany said, alluding to Democrats’ earlier opposition to government funding measures.
She argued that Democrats’ unwillingness to negotiate with Republicans on key issues stemmed from internal pressure within their caucus. “They’re admitting that. Another person familiar with Democrat in the Senate, their caucus thinking said we would have enough votes if people were not terrified of being sent to the guillotine,” she said.
Republican Financial Advantage
Republican National Committee Chairman Joe Gruters said the GOP may outspend Democrats this election cycle, a shift from historical patterns. Speaking on Breitbart, Gruters noted that Republicans have approximately $800 million available compared to roughly $350 million for Democrats’ coordinated efforts.
The RNC currently has about $125 million on hand, according to Gruters, while he described the Democratic National Committee as having negative cash reserves. He attributed the financial disparity partly to upcoming court rulings on campaign coordination limits that would benefit Republicans.
Focus on Kitchen Table Issues
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) appeared on Fox & Friends to discuss economic policy ahead of the midterms. “The kitchen table issues are gonna decide the midterms,” Johnson said, emphasizing legislation focused on cost of living and affordability.
Johnson cited the party’s tax cut proposals and economic policies as central to their midterm strategy. “We’re super excited about the midterms. I’m absolutely convinced that we’re gonna grow the majority and get this done and make history,” he added.
This story has been updated. CNN’s political team contributed to this report.
