Republicans hold a commanding edge over Democrats on several key issues, including immigration, crime, and the economy, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos survey that underscores Democrats’ growing vulnerability ahead of 2026.
Poll Shows GOP Strength on Crime and Immigration
The poll of 1,019 American adults, conducted September 19–21, found Republicans enjoy a 20-point lead on crime (40%–20%) and an 18-point lead on immigration (40%–22%). These are the two largest gaps in the survey and mirror results from a recent Washington Post/Ipsos poll, which showed Republicans with a 22-point advantage on crime and a double-digit edge on immigration.
Republicans Also Lead on Economy, Foreign Policy
The survey also found Republicans trusted more in:
- Foreign conflicts: GOP +12 (35%–23%)
- The economy: GOP +10 (34%–24%)
- Gun control: GOP +4 (32%–28%)
- Political extremism: GOP +4 (30%–26%)
CNN analyst Harry Enten noted the significance of the trend, “Back in 2022, Republicans led Democrats by just 3 points on immigration. That lead is now up by 10 points. On crime, the GOP advantage has jumped from 13 points to 22 points. Democrats are in real trouble here.”
Democrats Still Lead on Social Issues
Democrats continue to hold advantages in areas traditionally aligned with their base:
- Women’s rights: Dems +13 (38%–25%)
- Environment: Dems +14 (37%–23%)
- Healthcare: Dems +9 (34%–25%)
- Respect for democracy: Dems +2 (31%–29%)
A Warning Sign for 2026
The findings suggest that while Democrats maintain voter trust on healthcare, women’s rights, and climate policy, Republicans are expanding their dominance on the issues most likely to define the 2026 midterm elections.