A political commentator predicts Republicans will take a beating in the midterms, pointing to a struggling economy as the deeper problem.

• Republicans are expected to be punished at the polls for the current state of the economy.
• Younger people are said to be falling behind as the economy becomes more unequal.
• No political leaders are seen as prioritizing everyday Americans over foreign conflicts.
• A possible third-party run is floated as a way to make democracy feel more responsive to ordinary people.

Outlook: Expect continued talk of a third-party challenge as dissatisfaction with both major parties grows heading into the midterms.