Democratic politicians are facing historic low approval ratings, with recent polls showing widespread dissatisfaction among both the general public and the party’s own supporters.
A Quinnipiac University poll released this week found that only 19% of voters approve of how Democrats in Congress are performing, while 72% disapprove. Among registered Democrats, just 39% approve of their party’s congressional leaders, with 52% disapproving.
Republicans also face criticism, with 63% disapproving of former President Donald Trump’s handling of the Epstein files. However, Trump and Republican leaders still enjoy strong support from their voter base, receiving 77% approval—nearly double the approval rate for Democrats within their own party.
A Harvard CAPS/Harris poll similarly showed a decline, with just 40% approving of the Democratic Party’s performance, slightly down from the previous month.
CNN polling from March also revealed that only 29% of Americans view the Democratic Party favorably—a record low since polling began in 1992. Among Democrats, 52% feel the party is heading in the wrong direction.
Experts suggest multiple factors behind the decline, including the party’s embrace of progressive policies such as transgender rights in schools and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in government. Some moderates and independents have expressed confusion and frustration with these shifts.
The 2024 presidential campaign of Vice President Kamala Harris, widely criticized, is also seen as a contributing factor to the party’s poor standing.
Looking ahead to the 2026 midterm elections, Democrats hope controversies surrounding Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill” and the Epstein files might boost their chances to regain control of Congress. However, many analysts warn that deep public resentment toward the Democratic leadership under President Biden could limit these efforts.
With conservatives and moderates motivated to prevent a left-leaning return to power, Democrats face an uphill battle to regain voter trust and improve their standing before the next election cycle.
