‘Are You Kidding’: CNN Poll Reveals GOP Approval Rating

Rep Sarah McBride during House Committee on Science, Space and Technology hearing

CNN polling has indicated that Republicans now hold a clear advantage with voters on economic issues. Economic concerns, especially about inflation and recession, have increasingly shaped public opinion and party preferences. Voters now see only 16% of Democrats as strong leaders.

Florida Democratic Rep Jared Moskowitz shows off Jordan 6 sneakers on House floor

CNN polling analyst Harry Enten said, "How is it possible after all the recession fears? After the stock market's been doing all of this, after all the tariffs that Americans are against and Republicans still hold an eight-point lead on the economy? Are you kidding me!?"

Tennessee Democrat, state representative Justin Pearson joins state delegates

Reuters/Ipsos polls show the Republican lead is growing. Republicans are expected to hold an advantage as the party is viewed as better on economic matters.

Metro Detroit GOP House lawmakers hold a press conference

Enten said, "'Party with a better economic plan?' Well in May of 2024, just before Donald Trump was re-elected president, Republicans had a nine-point advantage."

Knox County Democratic Party Election Night Party

Enten added, "Look at where we are now in May 2025. The advantage actually went up by three points. Now Republicans have a 12-point advantage when it comes to the party with a better economic plan."

Wisconsin Republicans showcase candidates at the County Fairgrounds

Enten said, "Again, this is after months of supposed economic uncertainty in which the stock market's been going bonkers, in which tariff wars that Americans are against have been going on. And yet, despite all of that, the Democrats are down by 12 points on the economy."

Democratic candidate Debbie Mucarsel-Powell on the Fighting for Reproductive Freedom tour

Analysts at JPMorgan Chase have warned of possible stagflation—rising prices and low growth—last seen in the 70s. Uncertainty about trade may also weigh on markets.

Portsmouth Democrat, Jim Splaine, speaks at the NH State House

In recent decades, Democrats have held a strong edge among middle-class voters. The advantage has faded, and the gap has closed to a tie in current polls. Enten said, "Donald Trump and the Republican Party have taken that mantle away, and now a key advantage for Democrats historically has gone 'Adios Amigos!' and now there is no party that is the party of the middle class."

House Minority Leader Tony McCombie speaks during GOP Day

Enten concluded, "Republicans have completely closed the gap."

Laura Mitchell covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.