Voters say the economy drove them to the polls — and blame Trump for their troubles

Voters’ concerns about the economy and the cost of living helped drive a major Democratic victory in the midterm elections, reducing Republicans’ power in Washington and across the states. The result marks a reversal from 2024, when Donald Trump’s focus on economic anxiety helped him win the presidency and every swing state.

In a CNBC Voter Poll, nearly nine in ten respondents said the cost of living was a crucial or major factor in their vote for Congress, and the economy ranked as the country’s most important issue. Three-quarters rated the economy poor or not so good, while 2% called it excellent; fewer than one in five said their family’s finances had improved over the previous two years.