WASHINGTON — Six weeks before the 2026 midterm elections, President Donald Trump’s administration is weighing policy adjustments aimed at helping Republicans facing tougher-than-expected races, including a possible temporary limit on diesel exports and a retreat from plans to increase foreign beef imports. The moves would mark a shift for a White House that has often prioritized Trump’s agenda over the political needs of vulnerable Republicans. The administration is also allowing some candidates to criticize individual policies without directly attacking the president, according to people familiar with private discussions. The political pressure comes as high costs weigh on voters and competition has expanded into states Trump won by double digits in 2024. Recent polling cited in the report found 53% of Americans named grocery costs among their most difficult expenses, with housing and utility bills also prominent concerns. Diesel prices are a particular worry for industries that move goods by truck and for farmers. The average U.S. price was $6.51 a gallon, up from $3.69 a year earlier, according to AAA. Trump has expressed support for a 90-day diesel export ban, but Energy Secretary Chris Wright has said such a measure would not work and could raise gasoline and jet-fuel prices. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum also oppose the idea. The administration is separately considering whether to scale back Trump’s August proposal to increase beef imports. The plan has angered ranchers confronting higher input costs, including costs linked to the war with Iran. The White House called reports that it was considering a diesel export ban and reversing the beef decision “fake news.” Trump has also shown more tolerance for Republican criticism of his policies. When Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar publicly challenged his immigration approach, Trump spoke with her by phone rather than attacking her publicly. Some campaigns have sought advance guidance from the White House before taking positions that diverge from the president’s. Republicans continue to promote policies supported by Trump, including tax cuts and a proposed congressional stock-trading ban. But the widening map and voter concern about affordability have prompted candidates to show distance on issues that could hurt them locally. John McLaughlin, a Trump pollster whose firm is working for the White House, the Republican National Committee and Trump-aligned super PACs, said small shifts in opinion could determine close races. Democratic strategist David Axelrod described the policy maneuvering as evidence Republicans believe they face a difficult election. The stakes extend beyond campaign messaging: decisions affecting fuel exports or food imports could influence costs for households, farmers and businesses, while the coming weeks will test whether the administration’s adjustments can ease voter concerns before Election Day.