Gas, groceries and getting by: How voters in one Ohio district see affordability

Can't see the video above? Watch it here . TOLEDO, Ohio — "We were told that it was going to be different." That's what Alan Isbell of Toledo, Ohio, said when discussing what he sees as the rising cost of living. Isbell was on his way in to cast his vote in Ohio's primary elections on March 4 when he spoke with NPR. Toledo is part of Ohio's 9th Congressional District, which Cook Political Report sees as a toss-up race heading into this year's midterm elections. Voters here could help determine the balance of power when it comes to the U.S. House of Representatives. Ohio is also home to key elections including races for U.S. Senate and governor. NPR wanted to hear firsthand just how voters are feeling here about the cost of living. Many other Ohio residents shared concerns similar to Isbell saying that they've had to rethink how they buy groceries and where they travel due to high gas prices. That sentiment isn't unique to this district. According to the latest NPR/PBS News/Marist poll , more than 8 in 10 Americans said prices at the pump are putting a strain on their household budget, with a strong majority blaming President Trump. The House seat for this district has been held by Democrat Marcy Kaptur since 1983. Ohio is operating on a new congressional redistricting map, enacted last year. The map is meant to favor Republicans and Kaptur's seat is one they're hoping to flip. In November Kaptur will face off against GOP nominee Derek Merrin, whom she narrowly beat in 2024. …