Candidates in the 2026 US midterm elections are using clothing to project their messages, according to a BBC US & Canada report. Stylist Joe Zee said politicians are "dressing for two jobs at once: to look capable of holding office but to also look connected to the people they want to represent."
Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, who represents Washington's 3rd Congressional District, favours workwear such as jackets, flannel shirts and jeans. Robert Ordway, a conservative public policy adviser, said her style is "spot-on" for "authenticity and where you come from." Tashira Halyard, an attorney and public policy expert, said her style "shepherds a message championing the working class."
Democrat Mary Peltola, running for a Senate seat in Alaska, wears outdoor gear that refers to her years working on a fishing boat on the Kuskokwim River. Bonnie Kristian, a conservative author and journalist, said her flannels, puffer jackets and indigenous-inspired details are meant to remind voters she is Native Alaskan.
Republican Ashley Hinson, running for Senate in Iowa, has worn an American flag-decorated pair of pumps and a denim dress with a red bandana. Halyard called the look "quintessential American patriotism." Kristian said the look signals that Hinson is "a Republican wooing rural voters."
In Texas, Republican Ken Paxton, 63, and Democrat James Talarico, 37, are competing in a race the report describes as a battleground. Both have worn relaxed blazers and cowboy boots. Ordway said, "The necktie is dead on the campaign trail in both parties." Fashion critic Friedman said Talarico's Lucchese cowboy boots are "a very deliberate choice."
Paxton has faced criticism over a luxury watch and a Four Seasons polo shirt. His opponent criticized the outfit during a debate about the cost of living. Zee said the watch's identity and value were unconfirmed. Former President Donald Trump has urged voters to focus on Paxton's record instead of his suit, which Trump said "doesn't look so great."