See CBS News exit poll results for the 2026 midterm elections
Key Points:
- President Trump's approval rating is at 38%, the lowest for a sitting president during midterm elections, with about 60% of voters citing him as a factor in their House vote, driven mainly by Democratic opposition.
- Economic dissatisfaction is high, with roughly three-quarters of voters unhappy about the country's direction and more voters viewing the economy negatively now compared to two years ago, impacting voter sentiment significantly.
- The cost of living is a top concern across parties, with many voters reporting worsened personal finances and inflation hardships; Democrats prioritize democracy and government corruption, while Republicans focus more on the economy and immigration.
- Government corruption is a major factor for about 90% of voters, and six in ten believe Trump puts personal interests over the country; the Iran war is unpopular, including among some Republicans.
- Neither major party holds majority favorability, with voters expressing skepticism about party effectiveness and emerging concerns about data centers, artificial intelligence, and election integrity, especially among Republican voters.