Quinnipiac Poll Shows Record-Low Approval for Congressional Democrats

 

Photo "Donald Trump" by Dan Scavino

Quinnipiac Poll Shows Record-Low Approval for Congressional Democrats

A new Quinnipiac University poll reveals a historic low level of public approval for congressional Democrats, underscoring deep voter dissatisfaction as the party looks ahead to the next phase of President Donald Trump’s second term.

According to the survey released Wednesday, just 18 percent of respondents approve of the job Democrats in Congress are doing, while 73 percent disapprove — resulting in a net approval rating of minus 55 points. The findings mark the lowest approval rating since Quinnipiac began tracking congressional approval in 2009.

The new numbers surpass the previous low recorded in July, when approval stood at 19 percent.

Fallout From Government Shutdown

The sharp decline in approval follows the end of a 43-day government shutdown, which concluded after a group of eight Senate Democrats agreed to reopen the government without securing protections for Affordable Care Act subsidies. That decision triggered backlash from progressive lawmakers and Democratic voters, with criticism largely focused on Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York.

Since the shutdown, lawmakers have introduced competing proposals to address the Affordable Care Act tax credits, which are set to expire on December 31, but no consensus has emerged.

Democratic Voters Also Divided

The poll indicates that dissatisfaction extends beyond independents and Republicans. Among Democratic respondents, only 42 percent said they approve of how Democrats in Congress are performing, while 48 percent disapprove. Just months earlier, in October, nearly 60 percent of Democrats expressed approval, highlighting a sharp internal shift in sentiment.

Analysts say the erosion of support within the party’s own base could pose challenges for Democratic leadership, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Despite the bleak polling numbers, Democrats remain optimistic about their electoral prospects following recent off-year victories in states such as New Jersey, Virginia, Georgia, and Florida. Candidates in those races focused heavily on cost-of-living issues, a strategy party leaders hope will resonate nationally.

Inflation remains a central concern for voters, holding steady at 3 percent in September, the same level recorded in January, according to government data.

As Congress enters a critical legislative period ahead of the next election cycle, the Quinnipiac poll signals a warning sign for Democrats struggling to unite their base and regain voter confidence.

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FAQs

What does the new Quinnipiac poll show?

The Quinnipiac poll shows that only 18% of respondents approve of the job congressional Democrats are doing, while 73% disapprove, resulting in a net approval rating of -55 points.

Is this the lowest approval rating for congressional Democrats?

Yes. This is the lowest approval rating since Quinnipiac began asking the question in 2009.

When was the poll released?

The survey was released on Wednesday, according to Quinnipiac University.

Why has approval for congressional Democrats dropped?

The decline follows a 43-day government shutdown and backlash over Democratic leadership’s handling of Affordable Care Act subsidy negotiations.

How do Democratic voters feel about their own party’s performance?

Among Democratic respondents, 42% approve of congressional Democrats’ performance, while 48% disapprove.

How does this compare to earlier polls?

In October, nearly 60% of Democratic respondents approved of how congressional Democrats were handling their jobs. The latest poll shows a sharp decline.

Which Democratic leaders are facing criticism?

Criticism has largely focused on Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

What role did the government shutdown play?

The shutdown lasted 43 days and ended without a deal to preserve Affordable Care Act subsidies, which angered progressives and many Democratic voters.

Are Democrats optimistic despite the poll results?

Yes. Democrats point to recent off-year election victories in states like New Jersey, Virginia, Georgia, and Florida as signs of potential momentum.

What issues are voters most concerned about?

Cost-of-living concerns remain a top issue, with inflation holding steady at 3 percent in recent months.

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