CNN’s Harry Enten made headlines during a recent discussion about the strikingly low approval ratings for Congressional Democrats. His remarks highlighted a situation that many may find hard to believe due to its gravity. He pointedly noted that Democrats are “lower than the Dead Sea.” This vivid analogy sets the tone for an analysis of why their ratings have plummeted so deeply.
According to Enten, the net approval rating for Democrats in Congress is currently at an astonishingly low point—55 points underwater. Fewer than 20% of respondents approve of their performance, illustrating a stark disconnect between the party and the American people. When Independents are factored in, the numbers grow even more alarming, revealing a negative 61-point approval rating. Enten pointed out that this reflects the worst standings ever recorded by Quinnipiac over decades of polling, emphasizing that this is no small matter.
The implications of these dismal ratings are profound. They signal not just a retrenching of public support, but a failure to connect with key voter demographics, particularly Independents, who historically lean more moderate. The dissatisfaction extends beyond external measures; even within their ranks, many Democrats disapprove of their own party. The net approval rating among Democrats is now lower than their disapproval rating—unprecedented in recent times. Such internal dissent erodes party unity, which is often crucial in rallying support during election cycles.
Enten discussed how this discontent has manifested in specific cases, such as the challenges faced by Dan Goldman in his potential primary against Brad Ladner. Goldman’s woes highlight how disillusionment among the party’s base could impact incumbents. If the base is angry at their representatives, no seat is safe, even those thought to be secure.
The dramatic 28-point decline in approval from October hasn’t occurred in isolation. Enten noted that as Democrats head toward the midterms, they must be concerned about their chances to regain majorities in Congress. Presently, they lead on the generic Congressional ballot, but only by four points, which is historically notably weak. Previously, stronger positions were common; Democrats enjoyed leads of ten points during similar election cycles in 2006 and 2018.
Even though some Democrats may feel optimistic, buoyed by factors such as Trump’s unpopularity, Enten advised caution. “Hold on just a minute,” he cautioned, warning that prevailing numbers suggest a tougher battle ahead than anticipated. This tempered assessment serves as a reminder that while changes in public opinion can occur swiftly, the current climate shows little sign of an upswing for Democrats facing entrenched opposition.
As the political landscape evolves leading into the midterms, the stern data presented by Enten underscores an urgent reality for Congressional Democrats. The path to recovery demands not just engagement and messaging but a genuine reconnection with those they aim to serve. Absent that, the current low ratings may very well signal more than a momentary dip; they could characterize a significant rhetorical and representational crisis moving forward.
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