Poll shows young Americans strongly disapprove of Democrats, Republicans, Trump

A recent national survey reveals that young Americans are deeply skeptical about the direction of the country, the economy, and the leadership of both major political parties. The findings, from the 51st Harvard Youth Poll, show widespread disapproval of President Donald Trump and Congress among Americans aged 1829.

While the Republican Party has previously made gains among younger voters, helping secure victories in last years presidential and congressional elections, the latest poll signals potential challenges for the GOP ahead of next years midterms. Democrats, energized by recent electoral wins, also face mixed prospects as they look to consolidate support.

The poll, conducted by Harvard Kennedy Schools Institute of Politics, reports that Trumps overall approval rating among young adults stands at 29%, down two points since last spring. Approval of his handling of the economy is even lower, at 26%. Congressional Democrats received a 27% approval rating, while Republicans in Congress scored 26%.

Young Americans consistently hold low opinions of national leadership, reflecting the belief that political leaders are unresponsive to the economic and technological pressures they face, the poll noted.

Survey results indicate dissatisfaction within both parties. Nearly half of young Democrats described their party negatively, and only 35% expressed positive views. Among young Republicans, 25% offered negative assessments, while 46% had positive views of the GOP. Despite these perceptions, Democrats appear to hold an advantage for the 2026 Congressional elections, with 46% of registered young voters favoring Democratic control compared to 29% supporting the GOP.

Concerns extend beyond politics. Only 13% of respondents believe the country is moving in the right direction, and 43% report struggling financially or living with limited security. Just 30% expect to be financially better off than their parents. Additionally, young Americans overwhelmingly worry that artificial intelligence could limit their future opportunities.

John Della Volpe, Director of Polling at the Institute of Politics, commented, Young Americans are sending a clear message: the systems meant to support them no longer feel stable, fair, or responsive. Their trust in democracy, the economy, and even each other is weakeningnot due to disengagement, but because they feel unheard and vulnerable in uncertain times.

The survey included 2,040 U.S. residents aged 1829 and was conducted from November 37 in collaboration with Ipsos Public Affairs. The margin of error for the poll is 2.94 percentage points.

Author: Caleb Jennings