The economy and the state of democracy have emerged as the top issues for US voters, according to an election day poll. The survey, which polled over 79,000 people, found that 39% of respondents cited the economy as their most important issue, while 32% prioritized the state of democracy.
Immigration followed as a key concern for 14% of voters, with healthcare, foreign policy, and crime ranking lower. Data from the poll indicates a largely negative view of the national economy, with 75% of participants describing its state as "not so good or poor." Looking at personal finances, 44% of those surveyed reported their family's financial situation had worsened over the past two years.
Regarding the impact of former President Donald Trump's policies, nearly two-thirds (65%) of voters surveyed believe they have worsened economic conditions in the US. Conversely, 28% felt his policies had improved the economy, and 8% noted no impact. When asked about their vote, 43% stated that expressing opposition to Trump was a reason for their decision, while 41% said he was not a factor, and 16% cited supporting him as a reason.
Overall sentiment about the country's direction reveals widespread dissatisfaction. Nearly 40% of respondents (38%) expressed anger about the current state of the US, with an additional 37% reporting dissatisfaction. Only 18% stated they were satisfied, and 7% felt enthusiastic, indicating a majority are unhappy with the nation's current trajectory.
Inflation has also been a significant hardship for most Americans, with 79% reporting severe or moderate hardship due to rising prices in the past year. A fifth of respondents stated they experienced no hardship from inflation. Concerns about the cost of fuel and groceries were high, with 59% and 58% of voters respectively expressing "very concerned" about these costs. A majority (62%) attributed higher prices more to Trump's policies, while 38% believed they were due to factors beyond his control.