AP Poll: Inflation and corruption drove voters to Democrats in 2026 midterms
A national survey indicates that economic hardship and perceptions of government impropriety outweighed partisan loyalty, contributing to Democratic gains in the House and Senate.
By Rebecca Svoboda ·
Voters in the 2026 midterm elections prioritized economic stability and governmental integrity over traditional partisan loyalty, according to a new AP Voter Poll conducted across all 50 states. The survey, conducted from October 19 to November 3 in most states and through November 3 in Alaska, reveals that dissatisfaction with the current administration’s economic record was a primary driver for the shift in congressional control.
Inflation emerged as the central issue for many households. Approximately two-thirds of voters nationwide stated that President Donald Trump’s policies, including tariffs and the conflict in Iran, worsened the economy. Within this group, about 80 percent supported Democratic candidates in their local House races. In Texas, a state historically favorable to Republicans, about 20 percent of voters reported severe financial hardship due to inflation, and roughly three-quarters of this group voted for Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico.
Perceptions of corruption also influenced voting behavior. More than half of voters identified government corruption as a crucial factor in their congressional vote, a slightly higher share than those who cited the cost of living. This sentiment coincided with widespread criticism of the president’s personal financial activities, including his pursuit of a White House ballroom and his earnings from cryptocurrency. About two-thirds of voters indicated that the president did not hold the right priorities, and the majority of these respondents backed Democratic House candidates.
The poll also identified a demand for stronger congressional oversight. Approximately 70 percent of voters, including 40 percent of Republicans, stated that Congress had not done enough to check presidential power. This frustration stemmed from legislative actions taken during the past two years, such as federal workforce reductions and the imposition of new trade barriers, which many voters felt passed with minimal objection from the Republican-led legislature.
Democratic victories were not driven by overwhelming popular support for the party. Only about half of voters held a favorable view of the Democrats, compared to approximately 40 percent for Republicans. Instead, voters in competitive races often chose Democratic candidates to enact specific changes. In Maine, for example, a larger share of voters prioritized "needed change" over "right experience," resulting in a victory for Democrat Troy Jackson over Republican incumbent Susan Collins.
The selection of Republican candidates also played a role in the election results. The AP Voter Poll found that many voters viewed Republican nominees as lacking necessary experience or character. In South Carolina, about 60 percent of voters said Senate candidate Darline Graham lacked the experience to serve. In North Carolina, about 60 percent of voters described Republican nominee Michael Whatley as "too supportive" of Trump, leading them to select Democrat Roy Cooper for the Senate seat.
