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Politics · October 17, 2026

GOP Rep. Scott Perry narrowly behind in Pennsylvania reelection bid: Poll

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A recent ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos poll, conducted about two weeks before the 2026 midterm elections, shows Democrats holding an 8-percentage point lead over Republicans in the generic House ballot among likely voters (52% to 44%). The poll highlights significant challenges for the GOP, including President Trump’s record-low approval rating of 33% and widespread public dissatisfaction with the economy, inflation, and the cost of living. While a large majority of Americans view household purchases as unaffordable and believe the country is headed in the wrong direction, Democrats are currently trusted more on 10 out of 12 key issues, including the economy and inflation, which were previously GOP strengths.

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Reported across the spectrum

  • Democrats lead Republicans 52% to 44% among likely voters in the generic House ballot.
  • President Trump's approval rating has hit a record low of 33%.
  • 72% of Americans believe the country is headed in the wrong direction.
  • Half or more Americans call every household purchase category measured unaffordable.
  • Democrats lead by 21 points among independent likely voters.
  • Republicans are trusted more than Democrats on only one issue: crime.
  • 75% of Americans rate the nation's economy negatively.

Reported by only some outlets

  • A federal judge has ordered government-funded TV ads promoting Trump to stop running.
  • 57% of Republicans believe it is inappropriate for Trump to push for his name on the Kennedy Center.
  • 66% of Americans believe Trump is using the presidency to enrich himself.
  • 21% of Republicans disapprove of Trump, including nearly half of non-MAGA Republicans.
  • Voters planning to vote in person on Election Day favor Republicans by 11 points, while all other voting methods favor Democrats.

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