Bishop William Joensen of Des Moines stated that the White House visit by 12 Catholic bishops on October 22 was exploited for partisan political purposes less than two weeks before the midterm elections

Policy, personnel and internal politics of Donald Trump's White House, covering executive orders, cabinet appointments, the agencies carrying out its agenda and the litigation that follows. Spans both his first and second terms, and the advisers whose influence shapes each.

Federal and state elections held midway through a presidential term, deciding control of Congress and many governorships. Turnout falls well below presidential years and the president's party usually loses ground, which makes them a standing referendum on the sitting administration.