Poll: Majority of Virginians Believe US Headed in Wrong Direction

But 60% optimistic about new Governor Spanberger's election

Jan. 28, 2026 at 10:23am

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According to the Wason Center's State of the Commonwealth poll, 65% of Virginians believe the country is headed in the wrong direction, while 60% are optimistic about the election of Governor Abigail Spanberger. The poll also found that Virginians are split on a proposed redistricting amendment, but strongly support raising the minimum wage and creating a paid family leave program.

Why it matters

This poll provides insight into the political climate in Virginia, with residents expressing concerns about the direction of the country while showing optimism about their new state leadership. The results also highlight key policy issues that are important to Virginians, such as the minimum wage and reproductive rights.

The details

The poll, conducted by the Wason Center at Christopher Newport University, surveyed 807 Virginians by phone from January 13-26. It found that only 28% of respondents believe the country is on the right path, with the top concerns being inflation and cost of living (31%), political extremism and threats to democracy (22%), healthcare (11%), and K-12 education (10%). While 44% approved of former Governor Glenn Youngkin's performance, that number is higher than President Trump's 34% approval rating in the state.

  • The poll was conducted from January 13-26, 2026.

The players

Abigail Spanberger

The newly elected Governor of Virginia.

Glenn Youngkin

The former Governor of Virginia.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States.

Wason Center

The research center at Christopher Newport University that conducted the poll.

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What’s next

The poll results will likely inform policy decisions and political strategies in Virginia, as elected officials and candidates seek to address the concerns of their constituents.

The takeaway

This poll highlights the complex political landscape in Virginia, where residents express dissatisfaction with the direction of the country but optimism about their new state leadership. It also underscores the importance of key policy issues, such as the minimum wage and reproductive rights, to Virginians.