New Poll Shows Democrats With Widening Midterm Edge as Economic Concerns Weigh on Voters

A new poll indicates a widening advantage for Democrats in the upcoming midterm elections, with a substantial portion of voters expressing disapproval of President Trump's performance and the nation's economic conditions.

The survey, conducted by ABC News, The Washington Post, and Ipsos, found that only 33 percent of Americans approve of President Trump's job performance, while 66 percent disapprove. More than half of respondents, 52 percent, stated they strongly disapprove of his performance.

In the generic congressional vote, Democrats now hold an eight-percentage-point lead over Republicans. The poll revealed that 58 percent of registered voters would prefer Democrats to control Congress and act as a check on the President, compared to 39 percent who want Republicans to maintain their majority and advance his agenda.

Economic concerns appear to be a significant factor in voter discontent. Forty-eight percent of respondents reported that their financial circumstances have deteriorated since President Trump took office in January 2025. Only 15 percent stated they were better off, and 36 percent reported no significant change.

President Trump's approval rating on inflation and the cost of living was particularly low, with 75 percent disapproving of his handling of the issue. His overall approval on the economy stood at just 28 percent. Three-quarters of respondents described the national economy as 'not so good' or 'poor.'

Rising fuel costs have exacerbated pressure on household budgets. The poll found that 71 percent of Americans considered gasoline unaffordable, a significant shift from February. Groceries, healthcare, and home energy costs were also cited as concerns.

Democrats are beginning to benefit from these economic frustrations, with 40 percent of registered voters trusting Democrats more on economic matters, compared to 33 percent who chose Republicans.

The military conflict with Iran has also emerged as a point of contention. Sixty-five percent of Americans believe the decision to take military action was a mistake, and 68 percent disapproved of his handling of relations with US allies.

Furthermore, the poll suggests Republicans could face a turnout challenge. Democratic voters were more likely than Republican voters to express certainty about voting. Among those identifying with the MAGA movement, 75 percent were certain to vote, compared to 57 percent of Republicans who do not identify with the movement.

Concerns about President Trump's conduct also appear to be affecting his standing. Two-thirds of respondents believe the President is using his office for personal financial gain, an increase from the previous year. Substantial opposition was also registered regarding the use of Trump's name on the Kennedy Center and federal government advertisements promoting his policies.

Overall, 66 percent of Americans described the President as 'too extreme.' Neither major party received a positive overall image, with the Republican Party viewed unfavorably by 63 percent and Democrats by 54 percent.

The poll surveyed 2,545 US adults from October 9 to 13, with a margin of error of plus or minus two percentage points for the overall sample. President Trump is scheduled to campaign in Greenville, North Carolina, to support Republican candidates Michael Whatley and Laurie Buckhout.