A comprehensive election day survey reveals that US voters consider the economy and the state of democracy to be the most critical matters facing the country. The comprehensive nationwide survey, officially known as the Voter Poll, gathers opinions from tens of thousands of members of the American electorate to understand voter motivations and demographics. Polling firm SSRS collects this information on behalf of a consortium of news companies, capturing a representative sample of early voters and those casting ballots on election day.
Economy and Democracy Dominate Voter Concerns
When asked to identify the single most important issue, 39% of the more than 79,000 respondents pointed to the economy. Close behind, 32% of participants named the state of democracy as their top priority. Following these two leading concerns, immigration was selected by 14% of voters, while healthcare, foreign policy, and crime registered lower shares as primary issues.
Views on national financial conditions lean heavily negative. Three-quarters (75%) of surveyed individuals described the national economy as "not so good or poor," compared to just 25% who viewed it as "excellent or good." Personal finances also reflect widespread struggle:
- 44% of people reported their family financial situation was worse than it was two years ago.
- 38% stated their finances were about the same.
- 18% indicated they were in a better financial position.
Public Sentiment on Inflation and Trump Policies
Rising costs have taken a heavy toll on households, with 79% of voters stating that inflation caused them and their families moderate or severe hardship over the past year. Only 21% reported experiencing no hardship at all. Furthermore, 59% of respondents expressed being "very concerned" about the cost of petrol and diesel, while 58% reported the same level of concern regarding food and groceries.
Regarding the administration's impact, 65% of surveyed voters claimed that US President Donald Trump’s policies worsened economic conditions in the United States, while 28% believed his policies improved conditions and 8% said he had no impact. Additionally, 62% of respondents attributed higher than usual prices more to Trump's policies, whereas 38% blamed factors beyond his control.
Voter Anger, Corruption, and Foreign Policy
General discontent is widespread among the electorate. Almost four in ten voters (38%) reported feeling angry about the way things are going in the US, and 37% expressed dissatisfaction. In contrast, 18% were satisfied and 7% felt enthusiastic. Meanwhile, a vast majority—90%—noted that government corruption was a crucial or major factor in determining their vote.
Foreign policy also influenced the ballot box, particularly concerning military actions in the Middle East. Roughly six in ten (62%) of those questioned stated that the US made the wrong decision to take military action against Iran, while 38% considered it the right move. Three-quarters (74%) of voters indicated the conflict was a crucial or major factor in their vote for Congress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top issues for US voters according to the poll?
According to the Voter Poll of more than 79,000 people, the economy was named the top issue by 39% of respondents, followed by the state of democracy at 32% and immigration at 14%.
How do voters view the current state of the US economy?
An overwhelming 75% of those surveyed described the national economy as "not so good or poor," while only 25% said it was "excellent or good."
What percentage of Americans experienced financial hardship from inflation?
Almost eight in 10 voters (79%) reported that inflation caused them and their family moderate or severe hardship over the past year, while 21% experienced no hardship at all.