In a striking shift heading into the 2026 midterms, a new Wall Street Journal poll finds that the Democratic Party’s standing among voters has plunged to its lowest level in more than three decades, with Republicans gaining the edge on nearly all key policy issues, including the economy, border security, and education.

The poll, conducted this month among 1,500 registered voters, shows only 36% of respondents hold a favorable view of the Democratic Party—its lowest rating since 1990. In contrast, 48% view the Republican Party favorably, with a growing number of independents citing disillusionment with progressive social policies and concerns over the economy.

Democrats Lose Ground on Pocketbook & Cultural Issues

Although former President Donald Trump continues to face skepticism over his rhetoric, legal battles, and past policy missteps, Republicans are still seen by voters as stronger on critical issues:

• Economy: 52% trust Republicans vs. 38% for Democrats
• Inflation/Cost of Living: 54% Republican, 36% Democrat
• Immigration/Border: 61% Republican, 28% Democrat
• Education: 48% Republican, 41% Democrat
• Foreign Policy: 45% Republican, 40% Democrat

Notably, younger, college-educated voters—long considered Democratic-leaning—are now more divided. Some cite discomfort with what they describe as “cultural overreach” on gender identity, race-based equity programs, and campus speech restrictions.

“The messaging has veered too far from the kitchen table,” said James Wells, a 42-year-old independent from Ohio. “I care about wages, debt, jobs—not whether someone’s pronouns are being respected on a college campus.”

Cultural Backlash and Media Trust Gaps

Critics say the Democratic Party has alienated working- and middle-class voters, particularly white and Hispanic men, by appearing out of step on issues such as family values, public safety, and freedom of speech.

A plurality of voters now say they believe the mainstream media favors Democrats, with growing support for alternative voices and platforms. Podcasts hosted by Joe Rogan, Patrick Bet-David, Candace Owens, and Russell Brand have gained millions of followers disillusioned with traditional outlets.

“You can’t trust CNN or MSNBC anymore. But you also can’t trust some of these Republicans either,” said Danica Monroe, 29, in Arizona. “That’s why I listen to long-form podcasts now. It feels more honest.”

America First Rhetoric Gains Steam

The poll also shows rising support for policies once deemed radical:

• Tariffs on Chinese goods: 63% support tariffs, with 37% saying they’d back even a 400% tariff on key imports to protect U.S. industries.
• Strict immigration controls: 71% say the border crisis is out of control.
• Gender and sports policies: A majority supports banning biological males from participating in women’s sports.

The Republican agenda of “America First” economics, immigration crackdowns, and cultural conservatism is increasingly resonating—even among former Democrats.

Democrats’ Support Falters Among Key Voter Groups

While Democrats still dominate among Black voters and some liberal suburban women, they’ve seen erosion among:

• Latino men: Support dropped from 58% (2020) to 44% (2025)
• Young white working-class voters: Dropped from 49% to 33%
• Independent women: Now evenly split, 45% each for GOP and Dems

Political analysts say that while the Democrats’ messaging appeals to educated elites and urban activists, it is failing to connect with voters in swing states and small towns.

👀 Trump’s Legal Woes Continue – But MAGA Army Stands Firm

Despite ongoing legal scrutiny—including his handling of classified documents and associations with controversial figures like Jeffrey Epstein—Donald Trump’s political base remains energized.

In a recent campaign stop, Trump vowed to “release all Epstein files” if re-elected in 2026, drawing cheers from his supporters. Critics say this is a political stunt, but it has reignited interest in transparency surrounding elite misconduct.

“If Trump exposes the truth, even some liberals will vote for him,” said one voter in Georgia.

What It Means for 2026 and Beyond

With just over a year before the midterms, the numbers paint a challenging landscape for Democrats. Economic anxiety, culture wars, and distrust of institutions appear to be tipping momentum toward Republicans.

Unless Democrats can recalibrate their message and reconnect with everyday concerns, 2026 may deliver a wave election that reshapes the political map—again.