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Republican 'unforced errors' threaten path to Senate control

The Capitol is seen at sunrise, in Washington, Oct. 15, 2021. Republicans aiming to retake the Senate majority entered this election year with a favorable political climate. But after a series of recent failures to encourage centrist Republicans to run, the pressure is on the GOP to make sure that the party doesn't shift so far to the right that they risk losing otherwise winnable races.
AP, file
Last week Gov. Doug Ducey announced he wouldn't challenge Sen. Mark Kelly to his seat this fall.

Republican missteps that include intense infighting are threatening the GOP’s path to the Senate majority.

Arizona Republican Gov. Doug Ducey dealt his party its latest setback by announcing he would not challenge Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly this fall.

But the GOP’s shortcomings extend well beyond Arizona.

Republican candidates in virtually every major battleground state are struggling to keep pace with Democratic fundraising.

Recruiting failures have hurt Republican hopes in Maryland and New Hampshire.

And a surprise plan that would raise taxes is putting Republican candidates on the defensive in states like Wisconsin, Ohio and Florida.