In a January 2026 study from WSJ Polls and Impact Research, respondents overall trusted congressional Republicans more than congressional Democrats. The poll asked American voters about issues like immigration, foreign policy, and President Trump’s term. While Trump’s approval rating is a net negative, the poll still found that Americans believe republicans are better suited to handle most issues.
According to the poll, Republicans held advantages on immigration, the economy, and border security, three of the most important issues for voters heading into the midterm elections. Congressional Republicans were also trusted more on foreign policy, particularly with regards to the Russia/Ukraine war. Democrats maintained strengths on healthcare and looking out for the middle class, two issues that could define the midterms.
This poll reminds us that while a president’s performance can determine his party’s results, most voters still hold beliefs similar to the pre-Trump period in 2024. And, as unlikely as it sounds, voters appear to be separating their view of Trump as an individual from their assessment of party governance. For the first time in a while, policy, not approval rating, could decide the election results.