Voters told ABC13 that affordability was their major concern as the 2026 midterm election approached. ABC13 said data showed the concern was driven by a months-long rise in inflation, a rise in the 30-year fixed mortgage rate, and gas prices that have risen since early 2026.
After the election, voter Laura Ballesteros said affordability and job prospects worry her and that she wants someone to speak on those issues and create change. ABC13 also spoke with voters who want relief quickly but understand it may take time.
John Diamond, director of the Center for Tax and Budget Policy at Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy, said local officials could reduce property taxes and housing market regulations so more housing can be built. He said ending international conflicts, including the war in Iran, could lower gas and diesel costs, and that Federal Reserve rate cuts could lower housing and car financing costs. Diamond said he expects change on a six-month to one-year timeline.