US voters are poised to deliver their first national verdict on Donald Trump's second presidency in the upcoming midterm elections, which will decide control of the House, Senate, and 36 governorships, potentially impacting Trump's final two years in office.
The Guardian's 2026 midterm voter panel features nine diverse voters from across the US, offering a snapshot of the national mood weeks before election day. Their opinions cover a wide range of issues, reflecting deep divisions and concerns. On the economy and cost of living, Democrats like Justin Daniels express frustration over working more but falling behind, criticizing corporate profits while individuals struggle with high gas and utility prices. Morgan Akin also highlights personal struggles with rising costs. David Ferrari recounts his parents' business failing due to Trump's COVID response and tariffs. Yajaira Martinez, an independent, points to labor shortages and rising interest rates impacting the housing market. In contrast, Maga Republican Sharon Anderson feels her life is better, safer, and more hopeful, viewing gas prices as a temporary issue. Regarding social issues and immigration, Democrat Scott Akridge highlights the negative impact of ICE. Independent Sally Rasmussen criticizes the 'assault upon the immigrant community' and the public display of cruelty. Independent Patti Fucci, a Venezuelan American, expresses fear and the need to carry her passport. Foreign policy and leadership also draw mixed reactions. Republican Caleb Davis praises Trump's re-establishment of American hegemony in Greenland and hopes for decisive success in the 'Iran war.' Sharon Anderson believes Trump's confident leadership earns global respect. However, Justin Daniels (a veteran) alludes to potential war crimes, and Scott Akridge advocates for withdrawing from the 'Iran war,' seeing it as unwinnable and a drain on resources. Yajaira Martinez believes wars are for profit and the US should prioritize its own people. Looking at the future of America, Sharon Anderson is optimistic about the country's strength and leadership under Trump. Conversely, Scott Akridge is pessimistic, fearing decline if leaders rejecting science and education continue to be elected. Justin Daniels somberly predicts the 'collapse of the American empire' due to economic and environmental factors. Sally Rasmussen and David Ferrari find optimism in resistance movements and progressive shifts within the Democratic party, such as the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). Caleb Davis, however, views the DSA as a concerning force aiming to dismantle American and Western concepts. Voters also discussed trust in leaders and allies. Justin Daniels describes the US as having 'old, racist grandpas' for allies, while Patti Fucci criticizes dealings with dictators. When considering the 2028 presidential election, voters are hesitant, but names like Pete Buttigieg, Andy Beshear, and Gavin Newsom are mentioned as potential Democratic contenders, with an acknowledgment of challenges like bigotry. An Air Force recruit, Caleb Davis, pledges honorable service to any commander-in-chief.
