CNN analyst Harry Enten has provided a sobering analysis for Democrats regarding their prospects in the upcoming 2026 midterms. His findings indicate that Republicans hold a substantial advantage across several critical issues, raising alarm bells for the Democratic Party.
According to Enten, the GOP is trusted more than Democrats on key concerns such as the economy, immigration, and crime. For example, Republicans lead Democrats by seven points on the economy—a slight decline from their previous 12-point margin in 2022—but still shows their strength on this issue. The situation looks even grimmer on immigration, where the Republican lead has grown from three points last year to a robust 13 points today. The Republican advantage on crime has nearly doubled, too, escalating from a 13-point lead to 22 points.
Enten bluntly stated, “Whatever Democrats are doing, it ain’t working.” This harsh assessment reflects not just the numbers but also the current strategy employed by Democrats since the 2024 election. According to Enten, they have focused on outrage and protests rather than offering constructive solutions or concrete policy proposals to address the American people’s concerns.
The comparisons with past election cycles serve as a grim reminder for the Democrats. Enten points to their standing relative to their performance in 2006 and 2018, both of which were historically more favorable for the party. With Democrats now trailing significantly in areas they once dominated, the question arises: what has changed?
As Enten elaborated, “Look at where we are now. Democrats are ahead, but by just two points.” This lack of substantial leads in vital areas signals a worrying trend for the party, especially as midterms approach.
The ramifications of these polling numbers extend far beyond mere statistics. They hint at a broader disconnect between the Democratic Party and the electorate—an indication that their current messaging is failing to resonate. Enten’s critique highlights an urgent need for Democrats to reassess their approach if they hope to regain ground.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, it becomes increasingly crucial for Democrats to refocus their efforts on delivering genuine solutions to pressing issues rather than relying on emotionally charged rhetoric. Their failure to do so will likely leave them at a disadvantage come November.
Harry Enten’s analysis underscores a pivotal moment for the Democratic Party. With Republicans capitalizing on their trustworthiness in essential topics, the need for a compelling response has never been more immediate. The message is clear: if Democrats wish to reclaim their narrative, now is the time for action.
"*" indicates required fields
