Why did republicans lose so badly in 1958

[OSR stands with Israel]

Wasnt Eisenhower popular throughout his two terms , what made the Republicans lose 48 house seats in 1958, and 13 senate seats . That is even worse then their 1974 defeat, what happened

[President Johnson]

Probably a recession in 1958. And quote from Wikipedia: "The Eisenhower Administration's position on right-to-work issues galvanized labor unions which supported Democrats. The launch of Sputnik may also have been a factor".

But you're right, the losses were stunning, especially when you compare them to 1974 in the aftermath of Watergate.

[Virginiá]

I really wish I had some detailed polling for elections in the 50s, but if you look at party control in various states going into that election, it looks more like the 1958 recession accelerated existing trends downballot, possibly due to FDR-era Democrats reaching peak voting power in various areas. Take a look at these (there are probably others but I don't have time to look at every state):

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Political_party_strength_in_California
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Political_party_strength_in_Pennsylvania
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Political_party_strength_in_Wisconsin

The effect on Congress was notable, which essentially marked the beginning of a large, stable Democratic majority:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Party_divisions_of_United_States_Congresses

You can see Republicans actually losing seats (somewhat) steadily throughout the 50s in those states, which the recession probably finished off. Compare this to 2010, where the states that flipped were not complete surprises. Many states that flew away from Democrats in 2010 had been on the way out for years, and all it took was one final push.  This movement started many years prior, just like 1958.

Anyways, just a thought.

[Orser67]

In addition to the recession, presidents often suffer big losses during mid-terms, especially their second mid-terms (the phenomenon is called the "six year itch"). Organized labor was also well mobilized for this election.

[OSR stands with Israel]

It doesn't explain how the GOP lost more seats then the watergate election of 1974