Corruption and the misuse of public funds have become prominent issues in the US congressional elections, with some polls placing them above concerns about the high cost of food and fuel. Democratic candidates are linking economic dissatisfaction to allegations of government corruption, while also arguing that their party is better equipped to address it.

In Virginia, Democratic House candidate Shannon Taylor accused Republican incumbent Rob Wittman of supporting tax advantages that benefited his own companies. Wittman disputes the allegations. Taylor is challenging Wittman in a district he has represented for almost 20 years. Democrats have also criticized President Donald Trump over alleged conflicts of interest and personal enrichment, while Republicans have sought to claim the anti-corruption issue as well, including through a government hotline for reporting suspected misuse of public funds. A CNBC poll cited in the account found that 35 percent of voters trusted Democrats more than Republicans to fight corruption, compared with 31 percent who favored Republicans.