🗳️ 2022's Red Ripple: A state-by-state analysis of the "red wave" that wasn't ❌
While the nation didn't experience a "red wave," a handful of states experienced a "red ripple" that shifted their electorates to the right.
What Happened to the “Red Wave”?
That was the question on everyone’s minds as it became clear that Democrats bucked historical trends and produced surprising wins during the 2022 midterm elections. This led the party to hold on to its majority in the Senate while keeping Republican gains to a minimum in the House.
In reality, the predicted 2022 “red wave” was more of a “red ripple.” This election was less of a ‘wave’ that shifted many states in a single direction, and instead produced more of a ‘ripple’ that relied on centers of Republican power that expanded their influence outward. On the opposite side of the coin many Democratic states saw the same effect: the party was able to produce wins and gain territory in regions that the party already held considerable power.
Below is a review of Battleground’s 2022 midterm elections results coverage, focusing specifically on states where local Republican successes produced this “red ripple.”
2022 Midterm Results Coverage
IOWA
Iowa has morphed into a red state, voting 12 points to the right of the nation in the 2020 presidential election. Its political realignment has challenged Democrats for the better part of a decade, leading the party to revoke its “First in the Nation” caucus.
OHIO
Ohio was once considered the quintessential bellwether state. Now it’s firmly within the grip of the Republican party after voters in Appalachia defected from Democrats in large numbers.
MONTANA
Republicans picked up Montana’s new congressional seat while also making history in the state legislature: the party held on to super-majorities in both state-level chambers by electing 103 Republicans, the most in state history to serve on the legislature at once.
FLORIDA
Florida is no longer a swing state. Governor Ron DeSantis marketed Florida as a haven for “freedom” during the coronavirus pandemic and ignited a wave of migration by conservatives across the country.
IDAHO
Republicans swept Idaho’s races as expected but many were surprised by voters’ strong support of far-right independent candidates.
SOUTH CAROLINA
Republicans held on to all of their US House seats in South Carolina, in part because Democrats failed to nominate candidates in two House districts.