Poll shows just 23% trust 2026 vote as Trump pushes voting takeover
WASHINGTON, DC: As the 2026 midterm elections draw closer, American voters appear increasingly uneasy about the fairness of November’s vote. A new Yahoo/YouGov poll suggests confidence in the electoral process is alarmingly low.
Conducted between February 9 and 12 among 1,704 adults, the survey found that only 23% of respondents are confident the midterms will not be “rigged” in favor of certain candidates. This comes amid continued public debate over proposals by President Donald Trump to take a more direct role in managing elections.
Public trust in elections hits historic lows
The survey underscores the extent of voter anxiety. While 33% of Americans believe the midterms will be rigged, another 44% remain unsure. That leaves 77% of respondents either doubtful or uncertain about the integrity of the elections, highlighting widespread skepticism that crosses party lines.
Experts say the findings reflect the persistence of election-related fears that have grown in the years following 2020. Analysts note that Trump’s rhetoric around “nationalizing” elections has amplified these concerns, particularly among Republican voters who now express higher confidence than Democrats that votes will be counted fairly.
Trump’s federal voting push meets strong opposition
The poll also asked respondents about Trump’s suggestion that Republicans should take over election management in at least 15 states to “nationalize” the midterms. A majority, 59%, opposed the idea, while only 19% expressed support.
Trump first discussed the plan during a February 2 interview with Dan Bongino, stating, “The Republicans should say, ‘We want to take over.’ We should take over the voting in at least many—15 places.” He later emphasized federal involvement at an Oval Office event, even though state legislatures hold primary authority over election procedures.
Partisan confidence in voting has shifted
The Yahoo/YouGov poll also highlights sharp changes in partisan perceptions. In December 2021, Democrats (42%) were more confident than Republicans (14%) in a fair election. Today, Republicans (37%) show greater confidence than Democrats (24%).
Concern about US democracy mirrors this divide: 66% of Democrats report being very worried about the country’s democratic future, compared to just 19% of Republicans. Among those who doubt the midterms will be fair or remain unsure, more point to Republicans (44%) than Democrats (33%) as the party most likely to try influencing the vote.
The survey paints a sobering picture of voter confidence heading into the 2026 midterms, reflecting both deep partisan divides and the impact of high-profile political proposals on public trust.
