Corruption and economic concerns have emerged as significant issues among American voters in the lead-up to the midterm elections, according to a recent nationwide survey. The poll, conducted in mid-October among 1,648 registered voters, found that about 69 percent expressed either strong or moderate worry about corruption, self-dealing, or conflicts of interest during President Donald Trump’s second term. Nearly half of respondents also believed that corruption was more prevalent under the current administration compared to previous ones.

The survey results indicate that concern about corruption spans across party lines, with nearly 50 percent of individuals who voted for Trump in 2024 sharing these worries. Economic issues, particularly rising fuel costs and elevated prices, also weigh heavily on voters’ minds. Many respondents linked these increases to policies associated with the administration, including trade tariffs and the ongoing conflict with Iran. Around 54 percent of voters attributed responsibility for higher prices to either the Trump administration or Republican members of Congress.

Further complicating matters for Republicans, over 40 percent of those surveyed said that the increasing cost of living has made them more inclined to support Democratic candidates in the upcoming elections. Approximately 56 percent of participants reported that their financial situation has worsened since Trump assumed office in January last year, with more than a quarter noting they have had to reduce spending on essentials like groceries and healthcare.

Observers suggest that perceptions of uneven economic hardship contribute to voter discontent. Jeremy Ney, a Columbia Business School professor, emphasized that while some economic difficulties may be tolerated if experienced broadly, frustration mounts when economic burdens appear to benefit a select few. Donald Trump’s family members have reportedly profited significantly, making over $1 billion through various cryptocurrency ventures during his second term. In addition, some corporate donors with close ties to the Trump family have benefited from policy adjustments and government contracts, fueling concerns about conflicts of interest.

Addressing these allegations, Davis Ingle, a White House spokesperson, defended the president’s record by stating that Trump has initiated an extensive campaign against fraud within the federal government, allegedly saving taxpayers billions of dollars. Ingle denied any conflicts of interest, asserting that Trump acts in the nation’s best interests and has received robust electoral support despite “lies and false accusations” against him and his businesses.

With the midterm elections approaching, Trump has urged supporters to view the contests as a referendum on his leadership. However, some Republican operatives have expressed concern that the president’s low approval ratings and the perception of economic mismanagement could hinder their efforts to maintain control of Congress. Sector experts note that many Americans mentally link issues of corruption and affordability, presenting challenges for the ruling party as voters weigh their options in the coming polls.

The poll was conducted online by Focaldata, a nonpartisan research firm based in London, between October 16 and 18. The results carry a margin of error of plus or minus 2.8 percentage points.