TRUMP FAILS TO CHANGE ECONOMIC HEADWINDS FACING GOP CANDIDATES

What happened: High gas, diesel and food prices are expected to stay elevated through Election Day, creating a political headwind for Republicans. Trump's diesel deal with Russia and his invocation of the Defense Production Act are seen as unlikely to lower prices before the vote. Key numbers: Diesel averaged $6.28 Why it matters: Economists and a Republican strategist say prices are unlikely to fall before Nov. 3, and rising gas prices could be a tiebreaker in close races. Democrats have a chance to capture Senate seats in Republican-leaning states such as Alaska, Iowa, Kansas and Texas.

High gas, diesel and food prices are expected to stay elevated through Election Day, creating a political headwind for Republicans. Trump's diesel deal with Russia and his invocation of the Defense Production Act are seen as unlikely to lower prices before the vote.

Economists and a Republican strategist say prices are unlikely to fall before Nov. 3, and rising gas prices could be a tiebreaker in close races. Democrats have a chance to capture Senate seats in Republican-leaning states such as Alaska, Iowa, Kansas and Texas.