New NYT/Siena Poll on Trump, Economy, and Voter Inclinations
How many Republicans have become dissuaded by Trump’s second term? How frustrated are independent voters with the state of the U.S. economy and global affairs? The answers to these questions will dictate the outcome of this year’s midterm elections.
A New York Times/Siena nationwide poll conducted last week gives us a sense as to how the votes may fall. The participants were 1,507 registered voters, with 35% identifying as Independent, 30% as Democratic, and 29% as Republican.
Voter Inclinations
50% of the respondents would vote for the Democratic candidate if the congressional election were held today, and 39% for the Republican candidate. 51% of Independents would vote Democratic versus 33% Republican.
50% of the participants are very dissatisfied with the Republican Party and 42% the Democratic Party. Independents are more dissatisfied with the Republican Party than the Democratic Party. 13% of Democrats and 36% of Republicans are very satisfied with their respective party.
49% of Independents consider themselves moderate. 45% of Republicans consider themselves very conservative.
Trump’s Leadership
57% of all respondents say the country is headed in the wrong direction. 65% of Independents have this view. 69% of Republicans say we’re on the right track.
49% strongly disapprove of the job Trump is doing. 54% of Independents agree. 59% of Republicans strongly approve.
Economy
49% of participants rate today’s economic conditions as poor. 51% of Independents hold this belief. 38% of Republicans say conditions are good.
50% strongly disapprove of Trump’s handling of the economy. 55% of Independents agree. 39% of Republicans strongly approve.
56% strongly disapprove of Trump’s handling of the cost of living. 61% of Independents have this belief. Only 29% of Republicans strongly approve.
44% of all respondents say Trump’s policies have hurt them personally.
Iran War
56% strongly disapprove of Trump’s handling of the Iran war. 63% of Independents believe this. 47% of Republicans strongly approve.
73% of Independents say going to war with Iran was the wrong decision and 62% of Independents don’t think the war is worth the costs.
72% of Independents believe presidents should not be able to use military force unless it’s approved by Congress.
Click here for The New York Times story on the poll and the complete results.