A brutal Wall Street Journal poll exposes Democrats trailing Republicans by double digits on immigration and the economy, handing President Trump’s GOP a massive midterm edge in 2026.
Story Snapshot
- Wall Street Journal poll shows GOP Congress trusted more on immigration (44% vs. 33%) and economy (38% vs. 32%).
- Democrats face 30-50 point deficits in House races amid internal fury over Schumer’s shutdown “betrayal.”
- GOP strategists exploit Democrats’ State of the Union snub on border security as prime ad fodder.
- Andrew Yang warns of Democratic decline, urging early 2028 primaries to counter “cringe” image.
GOP Surge in Key Polls
The Wall Street Journal poll reveals Republicans in Congress outperforming Democrats on core voter issues. Republicans lead 44% to 33% on immigration and 38% to 32% on the economy, with advantages in tariffs and foreign policy. This data underscores public preference for GOP handling of border security and fiscal priorities under President Trump’s second term. Democrats trail significantly in off-year races, signaling vulnerability as midterms approach.
Democrat Backlash Over Shutdown Deal
Democrat candidates Abdul El-Sayed, Mallory McMorrow, and Whitney Stratton blasted Senate Leader Chuck Schumer’s shutdown agreement as a “shit deal” and “complete betrayal.” The November 10, 2025, deal averted closure until January 30, 2026, but included only partial funding and an uncertain Obamacare vote promise. Critics argue Democrats squandered post-election leverage despite recent off-year wins. This infighting weakens Schumer’s position in a GOP-controlled Congress.
State of the Union Misfire Fuels GOP Attacks
During President Trump’s State of the Union, Democrats remained seated during applause for border security measures, drawing sharp GOP rebuke. Strategists Tim Murtaugh called it proof Democrats “root against America,” while Stephen Miller labeled it “disloyalty to citizens.” GOP figures like Joe Girdusky hail the moment as instant midterm ad material. This symbolic gaffe reinforces perceptions of Democrats as out of touch with voter priorities on immigration and national security.
Andrew Yang, now CEO of Noble Mobile, highlighted Democratic struggles on Fox & Friends in September 2025. He urged early primaries for 2028 amid a “massive” candidate field, citing the party’s failing image rehab efforts. These insights align with polls showing Democrats down 30-50 points in House races.
More Devastating News for Democratshttps://t.co/ROamMourkL
— PJ Media (@PJMedia_com) May 2, 2026
Implications for 2026 Midterms
Short-term, the shutdown aversion spares federal workers and travelers, but Democrat divisions boost GOP fundraising. Long-term, poll deficits threaten House and Senate losses, eroding opposition leverage. Voters prioritizing economy and immigration favor Republicans, despite some Trump economy dissatisfaction. GOP control of Congress amplifies these trends, frustrating elites on both sides who see government failing everyday Americans chasing the dream through hard work.
Sources:
Democrats in 2026 races slam shutdown deal as a ‘shit agreement’
Democrats’ big misfire at State of the Union has GOP strategists salivating: ‘Huge moment’
