A Fox News poll released Wednesday marks a historic shift in public perception: Democrats now hold a 52 percent to 48 percent advantage over Republicans on economic stewardship, the first time the party has led on this issue since May 2010. The survey, conducted from April 17-20, reflects growing discontent with President Trump's handling of the economy amid persistent inflation and rising energy costs.
The last time Democrats held such an edge was during the recovery from the Great Recession. Since then, the GOP had maintained a consistent lead across 10 Fox News polls, with advantages as wide as 15 points in January 2022 and February 2023. Now, that advantage has evaporated, with 52 percent of respondents saying Democrats would do a better job on the economy.
Republicans still hold commanding leads on other issues, including border security (by 16 points), crime and immigration (8 points each), and national security (6 points). Yet the economy remains the top concern for voters: 26 percent cited inflation, prices, cost of living, and affordability as the most pressing issue, while 17 percent pointed to the economy and jobs broadly. The war in Iran ranked third, at 11 percent.
President Trump's approval on the economy stands at just 34 percent, with 66 percent disapproving. His handling of Iran earns a slightly higher 37 percent approval. These numbers have fueled Democratic optimism about their chances in the upcoming midterm elections, with hopes of flipping at least one chamber of Congress. Recent polling in key battleground districts shows Democrats leading by 6 points, further bolstering that outlook.
The economic backdrop remains challenging. March inflation hit 3.3 percent, up 0.9 percentage points from February and 1.3 points above the Federal Reserve's 2 percent target. Energy costs surged 12.5 percent last month, a 12-point jump from February, driven by the ongoing conflict with Iran and disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Despite a ceasefire, the economic fallout continues to squeeze households.
Senator John Fetterman has been vocal in criticizing both Democrats and the media for what he sees as a weak stance on Iran, arguing that Tehran is emboldened by the administration's approach. Meanwhile, warnings from economists and former officials, including Barbara Boxer, highlight a "dark" economic reality for millions, with affordability dominating campaign messaging.
The poll surveyed 1,001 respondents via phone and online, with a margin of error of 3 percentage points. As midterms approach, the economy's trajectory will likely remain the central battleground, with Democrats seizing on this newfound edge to press their case.
