India, Nov. 1 -- Democratic candidates have opened an eight-point lead over Republicans ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections, with dissatisfaction over President Donald Trump's performance and concerns about household finances emerging as key factors influencing voters.

A new NPR/PBS News/Marist poll released on October 27 found that 52% of likely voters were more inclined to support a Democratic candidate in their congressional district, compared with 44% who favoured a Republican. The findings indicate a difficult political environment for Trump's Republican Party as it prepares to defend its position in Congress.

Opposition to the president appears to be influencing voting intentions. Around 44% of likely voters said their ba...