From BBC News · · 2m
Economy and democracy top US voter concerns
A poll of 79,000 American voters on election day reveals the economy and state of democracy as the dominant issues driving midterm choices.
In brief
A poll of 79,000 American voters on election day reveals the economy and state of democracy as the dominant issues driving midterm choices. Seventy-nine thousand US voters named the economy and democracy as their top midterm concerns, with most unhappy about current conditions and inflation's impact on their lives…
Economy and democracy dominate voter concerns
The Voter Poll surveyed more than 79,000 American voters on election day. Thirty-nine percent named the economy as the most important issue, while 33% put the state of democracy top.
Other issues trail far behind
Immigration was named most important by 14% of voters. Healthcare, foreign policy and crime were ranked first by a lower share of respondents in the poll.
Most voters see economy in poor shape
Three-quarters of those asked said the economy was in a not so good or poor state. Only a quarter said it was excellent or good.
Personal finances worsened for many
Forty-four percent of voters said their family finances were worse than two years ago. Thirty-eight percent said about the same and 18% said better.
Two-thirds blame Trump for economic decline
Around two-thirds of voters surveyed say US President Donald Trump's policies have worsened economic conditions. Twenty-seven percent say his policies improved conditions and 7% say he had no impact.
Inflation caused hardship for most voters
Almost eight in ten voters said inflation caused them and their family severe or moderate hardship in the past year. A fifth said it caused them no hardship at all.
Majority unhappy with current state of country
Almost four in ten voters said they were angry at the way things are going in the US. A further 37% said they were dissatisfied. Only 18% said they were satisfied.
Iran conflict shaped voting decisions
Around six in ten voters said the US made the wrong decision to take military action against Iran. Three-quarters said the conflict was a crucial or major factor in their vote for Congress.
Women and younger voters backed Democrats
Women backed Democratic House candidates by 59% to 40% for Republicans. Around two-thirds of voters aged under 45 voted Democrat. College-educated voters backed Democrats by 63% to 35% Republican.
What it means
Seventy-nine thousand US voters named the economy and democracy as their top midterm concerns, with most unhappy about current conditions and inflation's impact on their lives.
