Many Democrats Still Dissatisfied with Party, Poll Finds

Favorability of Democratic Party remains low despite recent election wins

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A new AP-NORC poll finds that only about 7 in 10 Democrats have a positive view of the Democratic Party, a significant drop from the past. This lack of enthusiasm among rank-and-file Democrats could pose a challenge for the party heading into the midterm elections, even as they hold advantages on key issues like healthcare.

Why it matters

The Democratic Party's diminished favorability among its own supporters is an unusual and potentially concerning trend, as the party typically enjoys strong backing from its base. This could impact turnout and enthusiasm in the upcoming midterm elections, despite other factors that may benefit Democrats such as negative views of Republicans.

The details

The poll found that Democrats' favorability of their own party plummeted from 85% in September 2024 to just 67% in October 2025, and those views have not recovered despite a string of Democratic wins in recent special elections. The lack of enthusiasm is consistent across different demographic groups of Democrats. Other polling suggests many Democrats feel 'frustrated' with their party, citing a lack of fight against Republicans and weak leadership.

  • The AP-NORC poll was conducted February 5-8, 2026.
  • The previous AP-NORC poll measuring Democratic Party favorability was conducted in October 2025.

The players

The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research

A nonpartisan research institution that conducts public opinion surveys.

Donald Trump

The former Republican president whose victory in 2024 contributed to the decline in Democratic Party favorability.

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The takeaway

The Democratic Party's struggle to maintain enthusiasm among its own base is a concerning trend that could impact turnout and electoral performance, even as the party holds advantages on key issues like healthcare. Addressing the frustration and lack of confidence among rank-and-file Democrats will be crucial for the party heading into the midterm elections.