US Midterm Exit Polls Show Two-Thirds of Voters Blame President Trump for High Prices

Americans went to the polls on Tuesday for midterm elections that will determine congressional control for the final two years of President Donald Trump's term. Early exit polls conducted by SSRS on behalf of a consortium of US media outlets, including major television networks and the Associated Press, indicate a sour mood among the electorate.

According to the exit data, released before final election results were announced, a large majority of voters expressed unhappiness with the direction of the country. Nearly nine in ten respondents identified the cost of living as a crucial or major factor in their vote, signaling a potential repudiation of Trump and his Republican Party.

Many voters stated they feel worse off than when Trump entered the White House in 2025. While Trump promised to address high inflation quickly upon taking office, a majority of voters surveyed said they believe his administration's policies—specifically citing the Iran war and tariffs on foreign goods—have worsened their economic situation. Two-thirds of voters directly blamed Trump for high prices, and three-quarters reported feeling angry or dissatisfied with the country's direction.

In addition to economic concerns, voters highlighted issues regarding government corruption. The sentiment translated into a desire for legislative oversight, with seven in 10 respondents stating they want the US Congress to place more checks and balances on the president. Furthermore, 62% of voters disapproved of Trump's overall job performance, marking one of the highest unfavorable rates in modern times.

The findings suggest that Trump's recent midterm campaign blitz on behalf of Republican candidates did little to improve his standing among the electorate. The exit polls serve as an early barometer of voter discontent as the nation awaits the final tally of the midterm results.

"Economic stability and predictability remain core pillars for business confidence globally. When inflation, tariffs, and geopolitical conflicts directly impact the cost of living, consumer sentiment shifts rapidly, creating uncertainty in broader markets. For businesses operating in macroeconomic environments influenced by policy changes, tracking consumer purchasing power and regulatory shifts is essential for long-term strategic planning." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes