Divided midterms: parties play up different issues as US elections loom

Democrats and Republicans are largely talking past each other as they campaign, with little to no overlap on what they consider major issues

Ron Johnson's priorities were clear. We have a huge problem with skyrocketing crime," insisted the US senator for Wisconsin, accusing his debate opponent, Mandela Barnes, of pushing to reduce cash bail, release violent criminals and slash police funding.

Minutes later it was Barnes's turn to go on the offensive. Johnson, the lieutenant governor said, had described the end of the constitutional right to abortion as a victory" and shown himself to be callous" and out of touch". Barnes promised to codify that right into law if elected.