Polls show economic frustration and election anxiety ahead of US midterms

A series of new polls indicates that economic pressure and concerns about election administration are shaping voters’ attitudes ahead of the US midterm elections.

An Associated Press-KFF survey of more than 2,000 rural registered voters found that about half believe the economy is worse off now than when President Donald Trump returned to office. Groceries, gasoline and healthcare were among their leading concerns, and rural respondents were more likely than voters overall to worry about affording food or fuel.

Separate polling reported by Politico found congressional Democrats gaining support among young men, with cost-of-living issues their top concern. An NBC News poll reported by The Hill found that 47% of voters ages 18 to 29 viewed capitalism negatively, while 42% viewed socialism positively. Forbes also reported that Trump’s approval rating had reached a low in a third poll during the week, though no figure was provided.

Voters also expressed unease about the midterm process. A University of California San Diego survey found fewer than half expected the elections to be free and fair. An NPR/PBS News/Marist poll found three-quarters trusted state and local officials to administer a fair election, while a separate survey found 62% worried that legal or political disputes could affect whether their ballots are counted.

Despite those concerns, NPR reported that previous elections show no clear link between voter anxiety and reduced turnout.