Now that the 2025 elections are over, all eyes are turning to 2026. The latest NBC News poll found voters are disappointed with the Trump Administration on the economy, inflation and cost of living, and looking out for the Middle Class. How will those issues drive voters to the polls next November?
By The Numbers:
Twenty-six percent of voters said protecting constitutional rights was the most important issue affecting their 2026 vote, and 23% said protecting democracy was the most important issue affecting their vote.
The economy was next on the list of importance: 16% of voters said the cost of living was the most important issue, while 10% said the cost of health care premiums was the most important issue and another 10% said immigration was their top issue.
Congressional Republicans have an advantage on “dealing with” border security, crime, and immigration. But Democrats and Republicans are tied when it comes to dealing with the economy, and Democrats have the advantage on protecting constitutional rights and democracy, and dealing with health care.
The Bottom Line: If there’s one thing we can take away from Tuesday’s elections, it’s that kitchen table issues still win elections. The Trump campaign understood this in 2024 when they focused on cost of living, immigration, and public safety. Candidates who won this week focused on the same. The GOP must heed the call from voters and take back the narrative that they are the party that cares more and will do more on cost-of-living issues that are moving voters to the polls.
