Political leaders in Washington are spending much of their energy these days blaming the other party for what could be a significant government shutdown. That effort includes shaping the narrative for next year's midterm elections. The Democratic campaign arm for House members has taken out digital ads critical of the Republican incumbents in 35 congressional districts it considers in play. Meanwhile, the House Republican campaign organization has digital ads running in dozens of swing districts. But recent history would suggest shutdowns play a limited role in subsequent elections as voters soon move on to other priorities.
