Democrats see a narrow path to flipping the Senate this November, needing to hold their current seats and win several targets—including some in conservative states—while Trump's low approval ratings amid economic concerns boost their optimism. Republicans, defending a 53-47 majority, remain confident in their chances, with experts noting the race has grown more competitive.

“The contest for Senate control is becoming increasingly competitive, largely due to what continues to come out of the White House—evidenced by the president’s extremely low approval ratings. This latest appearance of essentially a bribe by the president for a good outcome in the midterms will not help,” Grant Reeher, professor of political science, tells Newsweek in reference to Trump’s promise to send $5,000 to Americans if Republicans hold onto the House and Senate.

Reeher says the promise “seems desperate” and won’t be taken seriously by “persuadable” voters, describing the proposal as “just really bizarre.”

In another Newsweek article, “Donald Trump’s Approval Ratings Loom Over Midterms With 45 Days to Go,” Reeher says, “Voting for a Democratic alternative is a higher bar than stating lack of approval. But it suggests more about potential turnout effects than vote choice. And in a midterm, that's really important.”