WASHINGTON, DC – A new Washington Post/Ipsos poll has delivered troubling news for Democrats, showing that a majority of Americans now trust Republicans more on key issues such as the economy, immigration, and crime. The results mark a sharp shift in public sentiment as President Trump faces questions over executive power and economic policy.
According to the poll, 54% of respondents said the Democratic Party is “too liberal,” compared to 49% who see the Republican Party as “too conservative.”
Despite those concerns, the survey found Americans remain divided over control of Congress. By a 53% to 42% margin, respondents said they prefer Democrats in charge of the next Congress to “act as a check on Trump,” rather than Republicans who would “support Trump’s agenda.”
The survey of 2,513 U.S. adults was conducted September 11–15, with results released late last month.
Republicans gain trust on key issues
The poll revealed a growing GOP advantage on critical policy fronts. When asked which party they trust more on major national issues, 39% of Americans chose Republicans to handle the economy compared with 32% for Democrats. On immigration, the margin widened to 42%–29%, and on crime, Republicans held their largest lead—44% to 22%.
Within party ranks, Republicans expressed higher satisfaction with their leadership. Eight in ten GOP voters said their party’s positions are “about right,” while just 62% of Democrats said the same of their own party.
Concerns about presidential authority
While Republicans gained ground on policy issues, the poll also showed unease with President Donald Trump’s use of power. Sixty-two percent of Americans said Trump has “gone beyond his authority” as president, while 36% said he has acted within it. By comparison, 34% said former President Joe Biden exceeded his powers while in office.
A striking 87% of respondents said the Trump administration should comply with court rulings if found to have acted illegally, underscoring widespread concern about executive overreach.
Economy still seen as weak
Public attitudes toward the economy remain sour. Just 31% rated current conditions as excellent or good, while 68% said the economy is “not so good” or poor. Nearly two-thirds said it is a bad time to find a quality job.
Most respondents—70%—believe Trump’s tariffs on imported goods are raising consumer prices, though his handling of immigration and crime received his highest approval ratings at 44%. His overall job approval remains at 43%, unchanged from earlier this year.
Implications for Democrats
The findings present a warning sign for prominent Democrats such as Mikie Sherrill, who face reelection battles in swing districts. With more voters labeling the party “too liberal,” strategists may be forced to recalibrate messaging ahead of the next election cycle.
The full results of the Washington Post/Ipsos survey highlight how deeply polarized Americans remain—and how both parties face internal challenges over ideology and trust.
For Democrats, the message is clear: confidence is slipping fast, and recovery may depend on rebuilding credibility where voters feel it’s been lost.
