Voters Cite Trump as Economic Drag Ahead of Midterms, Poll Shows
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A new NBC News poll finds that a majority of voters blame President Trump for a hurting economy and express opposition to his policies, posing challenges for Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections.
A recent NBC News poll of 1,000 registered voters conducted Sept. 11-15 indicates that 55% believe President Donald Trump’s policies have hurt the economy, while only 26% say they have helped. Overall, 56% disapprove of Trump’s job performance, a level of disapproval that spans Democrats, independents and a minority of Republicans.
The survey shows that 43% of voters intend to use their congressional vote to signal opposition to Trump, compared with 27% who would vote to support him. Among independents, 46% see their vote as a way to oppose the president.
Republicans are emphasizing concerns that Democrats are too extreme, but 50% of respondents say they are more worried that Republicans would go too far in supporting Trump if they retain control of Congress, versus 42% who fear Democratic obstruction.
Policy-specific questions reveal limited enthusiasm for Trump-backed proposals. While 42% say they would be less likely to support a candidate who backs the 2025 tax cut and spending bill, only 21% say a $5,000 adult payment plan would increase their support for a candidate. Similarly, 57% say they would be less likely to back a candidate who supports a war with Iran.
Democrats hold narrow leads on several issues, including inflation, handling the Iran conflict and government corruption, though the margins are within the poll’s 3.1-point error. Republicans retain advantages on crime, border security and immigration, though their lead on border security has narrowed from a 36-point edge in 2022 to 21 points.
" > Donald Trump has achieved his goal of making this election about him at a historic level, said Democratic pollster Jeff Horwitt of Hart Research Associates.
" > The issue environment is tilting substantially towards the Democrats, said political strategist Mark McInturff.
The poll also notes that voters are largely unswayed by Trump’s endorsements, with 52% saying they would be less likely to support a candidate endorsed by him. Meanwhile, 45% of independents say they would be less likely to support a candidate who backs policies associated with the Democratic Socialists of America.
The findings suggest deep dissatisfaction with Trump and the Republican brand, while also highlighting the challenges Democrats face in presenting a positive narrative on key issues such as inflation, corruption and foreign policy.