Measles resurgence threatens Republican midterm prospects, physicians warn

Physicians and former Republican congressmen Larry Bucshon and Michael C. Burgess wrote an opinion piece warning that the recent measles surge is turning into a political liability for the GOP.

Vaccination rates have slipped, and measles cases jumped in 2025. The United States has recorded more than 4,000 cases this year, the highest total since 1991, along with six deaths. More than one in ten patients required hospitalization, putting pressure on emergency rooms and doctors’ offices.

The authors argue that silence on vaccines is becoming a dealbreaker for voters who might otherwise support Republican candidates, potentially jeopardizing the party’s chances of retaining majorities in the House and Senate in the upcoming midterms.