Overview
- A CNN/SSRS survey conducted January 9–12 shows Democrats up 5 points on the generic congressional ballot, widening to a 16-point advantage among voters who say they are deeply motivated.
- Most Americans judge President Trump’s first year of his second term a failure, with only 29% of independents approving of his job performance.
- Approval of Democratic leaders in Congress stands at 28% versus 35% for Republican leaders, and 71% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents say their party has been ineffective at opposing Trump.
- The most intensely motivated Democratic-aligned voters are more likely to feel unrepresented and to demand tougher opposition, a pressure that the poll suggests could influence primary challenges.
- Commentary synthesizing multiple polls highlights blue-collar white women as a key swing group driven by economic and health-care concerns, while separate analysis notes some surveys rate Republicans in Congress stronger on issues despite dissatisfaction with Trump.