Republicans shattered records for the number of candidates running for Congress this year, far surpassing Democrats’ roster heading into the 2022 midterm elections, in another indication of the grassroots energy building for a red wave this November.
At least 1,277 Republicans filed federal paperwork for House and Senate seats, accounting for 55% of the 2,317 candidates running for Congress. Democratic candidates make up just 41% of the lineup, while the rest are from third parties, according to Federal Election Commission data through the first quarter of this year.
The number of candidates willing to step up, campaign, and raise money for Congress can offer an early window into election enthusiasm.
