Summary
A new poll shows that more Americans are calling themselves political independents, which could be a challenge for President Trump and the Republicans in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. Many independents currently show a slight preference for Democrats, mainly due to dissatisfaction with President Trump, although they are not strongly committed to the Democratic Party.
Key Facts
- About 45% of U.S. adults now identify as political independents, an increase from two decades ago.
- Independents have leaned more toward Democrats recently, but this shift is due to frustration with President Trump, not strong support for Democrats.
- Young people, especially Generation Z and Millennials, are driving the rise in independents.
- President Trump's approval rating among young men has seen a slight rise recently, even though overall support remains low.
- Independents are more likely to describe themselves as moderates, unlike the increasingly polarized Democrats and Republicans.
