Major Shift: Poll Compares Democratic and GOP Approval

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump

Recent political shifts and public sentiment have increasingly shaped the approval ratings of both Republican and Democratic lawmakers, as captured in a new national survey. A NPR/PBS News/Marist poll has shown that Republican lawmakers have received a 36% approval rating, their highest since 2011. In contrast, Democratic approval has dropped to 27%, reflecting a 12-point decline. This marks the party’s lowest approval rating since 2011 and comes amid mounting challenges for Democratic leaders who have struggled amid internal strife.

US Rep. Nancy Mace speaking at convention

These findings suggest a growing public frustration with Democratic leadership, potentially driven by policy disputes and party infighting, while Republicans appear to be gaining favor, possibly due to unified messaging or policy wins. The poll results could have implications for upcoming elections, as voter perceptions of congressional performance often influence campaign strategies and outcomes.

Ocean County GOP Chairman watching election results

Pollster Matt McDermott stated, "Americans have a pretty sour view of everyone in Washington right now."

House Speaker Pat Grassley at Iowa GOP breakfast

McDermott added, "Midterm elections are almost always a referendum on the president and the party in power. In this case, that means Donald Trump and his Republican allies—and they're the ones really driving public discontent."

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene chatting in Congress

McDermott said, "It's important to note that the favorability of the opposition party has never been a reliable barometer for midterm results. Voters don't need to like the out party to vote for change—they just need to be fed up with the incumbents."

GOP voters Marcia Watson and Janine Chapa pray at event

Democrats’ approval has dropped to 27%, the lowest since 2011, down from 41% in early 2021. Only 44% of Democrats approve of their party's performance in Congress, while 43% disapprove. In contrast, 73% of Republicans approve of their party’s work.

Rep. Lauren Boebert hugs a fellow GOP lawmaker

Approval for congressional Democrats has fallen to 30%, with a net rating of -32. Many Democratic voters now prefer their representatives to take firm stances rather than compromise with Republicans.

People looking at Trump and MAGA caps

Independent voters have shown similar trends, with 25% approving of Republican leadership and only 20% approving of Democrats. Growing dissatisfaction among Democrats has reflected perceptions of poor performance and internal party divisions.

President Trump greets Republican lawmakers

McDermott said, "I see parallels in the current climate. Trump's presidency, or second presidency in this case, has mobilized a lot of anger and opposition."

Roger Anderson covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.