The issues Americans want their leaders to prioritize in 2026 have shifted over the last few years, according to the latest AP-NORC poll. Health care costs saw the sharpest uptick, while immigration and inflation remain top concerns.
By The Numbers:
Only one percent of respondents said costs of living were a top priority in 2018. Today that number is 33%. About 7 in 10 Americans mentioned at least one economic issue, including 51% of Independents, 44% of Democrats, and 37% of Republicans.
Immigration remains top of mind, with 44% of Americans listing it as a top priority, but more Republicans (60%) want leaders to address it, compared to Democrats (37%), or Independents (32%).
Almost half (41%) of Americans listed at least one health care issue as a priority, including 50% of Democrats, 41% of Independents, and 32% of Republicans.
The Bottom Line: These numbers show health care has moved to the front burner of Americans’ concerns, settling in the economic bucket of issues. However, Americans are highly pessimistic about our leaders’ ability to address the priorities. Only 11% said they are confident (down 15% from last year). Republicans must quickly engage on the health care issue. Ignoring the issue will not make it go away. With deadlines looming early in the New Year, Republicans must give Americans reason to have confidence the GOP has solutions on the issue.
