Voters rank economy above democracy in 2026 midterm poll

American voters heading to the polls for the 2026 midterms identified the economy as their primary concern, according to an election day survey. The Voter Poll, conducted by SSRS for a group of news organizations, collected data from over 79,000 people. The study includes exit polling from both early and election day voters.

Thirty-nine percent of respondents named the economy as the most important issue. Thirty-two percent selected the state of democracy as their top priority. Immigration followed, with 14 percent citing it as the key factor. Healthcare, foreign policy, and crime received lower rankings in the survey.

Most voters hold a negative view of the national economy. Seventy-five percent described the economic conditions as poor or not so good. Only 25 percent said the economy was good or excellent. When asked about their own household finances, 44 percent reported being worse off than two years ago. Thirty-eight percent said their financial situation remained about the same, while 18 percent said it had improved.

A large majority of voters attribute current economic conditions to presidential policy. Sixty-five percent said Donald Trump's policies worsened the economy. Twenty-eight percent said his policies improved conditions, and 8 percent said his administration had no impact. Forty-three percent said opposing Trump was a reason for their vote. Forty-one percent said he was not a factor, and 16 percent said supporting him influenced their decision.

Inflation remains a source of stress for most households. Seventy-nine percent of voters said rising prices caused severe or moderate hardship for their families in the past year. Fifty-nine percent expressed strong concern about the cost of gasoline. Fifty-eight percent voiced similar worry about food and grocery prices. Sixty-two percent believed higher prices resulted from Trump's policies, while 38 percent pointed to other factors.

The survey also measured sentiment on the country's direction. Thirty-eight percent of respondents said they were angry about the current state of the US. Thirty-seven percent said they were dissatisfied. Only 18 percent reported satisfaction, and 7 percent felt enthusiastic. Ninety percent said government corruption was a major or crucial factor in their vote.

Opinions on military action in Iran also shaped voting decisions. Sixty-two percent said the US made the wrong decision to engage in military conflict with Iran. Thirty-eight percent said the decision was right. Seventy-four percent stated the conflict was a major or crucial factor in choosing their congressional representatives.