The upcoming midterms will pit Democrats against Republicans. However, the traditional two party system does not fully explain America’s political landscape. Within both parties are subgroups. The Democrats have their moderates and their socialist counterparts; the Republicans have their moderates and their isolationist counterparts. 

Of course, both parties will be contesting against each other. But this year has shown much more internal fracturing and resorting to each party’s extremes. Perhaps the test for both parties will not be merely about getting the votes of independents or the opposing party, but if they can keep their own voting base in line.