Good morning.
With Election Day approaching, we’re looking at the issues driving voters, not just the candidates.
Today, we’re in New Hampshire, where voters are angry about the cost of living but determined to make their voices heard, and Ohio, where a legal fight over prediction markets could reach the Supreme Court.
New Hampshire: Voters Are Angry, but They’re Still Voting
What’s happening: Democrat Chris Pappas and Republican John Sununu are competing for an open Senate seat that could help determine control of Congress. Roughly four in 10 New Hampshire voters are registered as undeclared.
The biggest concern: Affordability. Home heating oil prices are up 74% year over year, according to figures cited in the episode. Reporter Asra Nassar met one woman planning to sleep in her living room this winter because heating the upstairs would cost too much.
Why it matters nationally: Voters are frustrated with both parties and increasingly skeptical that politicians can improve their lives. Small business owners are struggling with tariffs and rising expenses. Yet that frustration appears to be motivating participation rather than keeping people home.
What reporter Asra Nassar says:
“I did not meet anyone who said, I’m not voting. Not a single person.”
Ohio: Is It Investing or Gambling?
What’s happening: Ohio is among dozens of states fighting to regulate prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket as gambling. The platforms let users trade on outcomes ranging from football games to which party will control Congress.
The money: Traditional Ohio sportsbooks pay a 20% tax on their revenue, with much of that money supporting schools. Prediction markets operate under federal financial regulations instead, potentially leaving states without that tax revenue.
Why it matters nationally: Conflicting federal court rulings could send the issue to the Supreme Court. The outcome could determine whether states can regulate these apps, enforce age restrictions and restrict betting on elections.
What reporter James Pilcher says:
“They say this is a states’ issue, not a federal issue.”
That’s today’s show.
Should prediction markets face the same regulations as sportsbooks? And are rising costs influencing your vote?
Join the conversation at The National Press.
Real reporting. From real America.
