By — Associated Press Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/ap-voter-poll-the-economy-and-the-state-of-democracy-are-voters-top-issues Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter AP Voter Poll: The economy and the state of democracy are voters' top issues Politics Nov 3, 2026 6:26 PM EST 2026 ELECTION COVERAGE: Watch Live | Poll Closing Times | All Live Results | Live Updates | Live Fact Check Voters overwhelmingly feel frustrated with the way things are going in the U.S. today, according to The AP Voter Poll, which points to a midterm electorate that is deeply unhappy with the country's direction and pessimistic about the future. About three-quarters of voters say they feel "angry" or "dissatisfied" with the country's current trajectory. Only about one-quarter feel "satisfied" or "enthusiastic." Stand with free and independent journalism. Join Press Pass from PBS News Dissatisfaction was particularly high in blue states like California and Massachusetts, but even in deep-red states, a majority of voters were at least "dissatisfied." Voters are also displeased with the condition of the economy, with roughly three-quarters saying it is "not…
AP Voter Poll: The economy and the state of democracy are voters' top issues
In short
Roughly three-quarters of midterm voters view the nation's current economic climate as poor or not so good, while an equal share expresses anger or dissatisfaction with the country's direction. Beyond kitchen-table issues, government corruption and democratic integrity easily outrank immigration, foreign conflicts, and technological developments as major ballot considerations. Additionally, voters hold predominantly critical views of Donald Trump, with approximately two-thirds indicating his tariffs and economic policies damaged the nation's financial health.
Key points
- Pocketbook strains such as grocery bills and fuel costs are far more influential to voter…: Pocketbook strains such as grocery bills and fuel costs are far more influential to voters than immigration or foreign policy.
- Pervasive voter discontent is driven by deep frustration with the nation's current path a…: Pervasive voter discontent is driven by deep frustration with the nation's current path alongside fears of government corruption.
- Majorities of the electorate view Donald Trump unfavorably regarding his mental capabilit…: Majorities of the electorate view Donald Trump unfavorably regarding his mental capability, leadership strength, and prioritization of personal interests.