Democrats and Republicans scrutinize rivals' working-class backgrounds in midterm races

Campaigns in competitive congressional and Senate races are reviewing opponents' employment records and family backgrounds to challenge assertions of working-class credentials. The Democratic nominee in that race has received endorsements from two members of Congress for his labor background.

race Republicans have described the Democratic Senate nominee in Maine as a "prep-school kid" whose largest oyster customer was a family business. The nominee has described himself as a combat veteran and oyster farmer who lives a working-class life.

Republicans have also labeled the Democratic Senate nominee in Arkansas as an activist rather than a farmer based on her prior donations and political activity. Republicans have faced similar scrutiny in Iowa's gubernatorial primary, where the winner's past roles at a conservative advocacy group and on congressional staffs were highlighted by Democrats.

The article notes that voter preference for candidates perceived as authentic has increased the focus on biographical details in campaigns.