Poll: 80% of Americans Demand Change Ahead of US Midterm Elections

A new poll has revealed growing dissatisfaction among American voters with President Donald Trump's leadership, with 80 per cent of respondents saying the country needs significant changes or a complete overhaul of its governing system ahead of the November 3 congressional midterm elections.

The survey, conducted by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research among more than 1,100 American adults, was released on Thursday, October 15, 2026.

The findings indicate widespread frustration with the administration's domestic and foreign policies, raising concerns about the Republican Party's chances of retaining control of both chambers of Congress.

According to the poll, dissatisfaction extends beyond Democratic voters, with some Republicans also expressing a desire for change. Among Republican respondents, 45 per cent favoured substantial changes to the country's direction, while 13 per cent supported a complete political overhaul.

Economy Remains Major Concern

Economic conditions are emerging as a major factor influencing voters' decisions ahead of the elections.

The survey found that 85 per cent of respondents considered the economy one of the most important issues when deciding how to vote.

Approximately 80 per cent of registered voters disapproved of Trump's handling of the cost of living, while about three-quarters expressed dissatisfaction with his overall management of the economy.

The findings also showed that only around one-third of registered voters held a favourable opinion of the Republican president, with a similar proportion approving of his overall performance in office.

The poll further indicated that more voters preferred Democrats to take control of Congress, suggesting a potential shift in the balance of political power in Washington.

Immigration, Healthcare and Iran War Feature in Voters' Concerns

Beyond economic issues, immigration and crime remain important concerns, particularly among Republican voters.

About 45 per cent of respondents identified immigration and crime as major priorities, although Republican voters were more likely than Democrats to emphasise these issues.

Democratic voters, meanwhile, were more inclined to identify healthcare as a leading concern.

The survey also found that 69 per cent of voters considered healthcare a major issue, while 64 per cent said the war involving Iran was among their key concerns.

Artificial intelligence was identified as a significant issue by 35 per cent of respondents, while transgender-related issues received less attention, with 12 per cent considering them a major priority.

Voters Emphasise Importance of Midterm Elections

Despite widespread dissatisfaction with the country's direction, the survey found that many Americans remain committed to participating in the democratic process.

Approximately two-thirds of registered voters said voting in the November midterm elections was extremely important, while about 20 per cent described it as very important.

Democratic voters demonstrated particularly strong enthusiasm for voting, with 75 per cent describing participation as extremely important, compared with approximately 60 per cent of Republican respondents.

The midterm elections will determine control of the US Congress and could significantly influence Trump's ability to advance his legislative agenda during the remainder of his presidency.

The poll suggests that economic pressures, dissatisfaction with presidential leadership and concerns about international conflicts could play decisive roles in shaping voters' choices.