Democrats have regained a significant advantage in handling the economy, according to a Fox News poll released on Wednesday. This marks a notable shift in public opinion, with Democrats now holding their strongest lead over Republicans since 2006. The survey conducted in July 2026 highlights economic concerns as voters prioritize inflation, affordability, and household finances ahead of the midterm elections.
The poll found President Donald Trump’s approval rating on the economy remains underwater, with 33 percent approval compared to 67 percent disapproval. Crime remains one of Trump’s comparatively stronger issues, but voters express dissatisfaction with rising costs. Inflation is cited as a cause of hardship.
The current survey shows Democrats with a 54 percent preference over Republicans’ 45 percent when asked which party would handle the economy better. This 9-point advantage is the largest Democrats have held in decades. In previous polling from April, Democrats held a narrower margin of 52 percent compared to Republicans’ 48 percent.
The poll included 1,003 registered voters surveyed between July 17 and July 20, with a margin of error of 3 percent. Separate surveys reflect similar economic concerns, including a Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos survey. It notes an increasing share of Republican voters feeling financially weakened during Trump’s second term, escalating from 13 percent to 18 percent.
White House Spokesman Kush Desai noted that once the situation with Iran is resolved, oil and gas prices—and overall inflation—will drop rapidly. Desai mentioned previous wage gains and assured that the administration’s agenda would deliver more economic relief.
Additional polling underscores voter unease, with approval ratings on Trump’s economic management at or near their lowest levels. Though polls provide snapshots of public opinion rather than predictions, they indicate a potentially shifting political environment focused on economic matters.
Voters consistently rank inflation, the cost of living, affordability, and financial security among their top priorities. Both parties are expected to center their midterm campaign messaging around economic themes.
The Economist/YouGov survey this week reveals further economic sentiment: 75 percent describe the economy as fair or poor, and only 15 percent see improvement. Conducted from July 17 to July 20, the poll surveyed 1,602 U.S. adults and carries a margin of error of 3.3 percent.
The American Research Group poll also indicates Trump’s economic approval rating at 28 percent, with a 70 percent disapproval rate. Overall approval stands at 30 percent versus 67 percent disapproval. This survey includes 1,100 adults, observed from July 16 to July 20, and has a 3 percent margin of error.

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