The turbulent midterm campaign rolled through its final weekend as voters – buffeted by record inflation, worries about their personal safety, and fears about the fundamental stability of American democracy – showed clear signs of preparing to reject Democratic control of Washington and embrace divided government.

As candidates sprinted across the country to make their closing arguments, Republicans entered the final stretch of the race confident they would win control of the House and possibly the Senate. Democrats steeled themselves for potential losses even in traditionally blue corners.