Most K Street leaders (90%) said Democrats are in a stronger position than the GOP ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, according to our most recent Canvass survey.
Notably, 84% of Republican respondents ranked the Democratic Party in the more favorable position heading into the campaign season.
In their midterm messaging so far, Democrats have focused heavily on health care — including the expiration of premium enhanced ACA subsidies — and affordability. Democratic leaders have also worked to offset key House GOP redistricting gains, although which party comes out with the edge heading into the November midterms remains to be seen.
Issues top of mind. More than eight out of 10 respondents said President Donald Trump’s immigration and deportation policies will be a top issue in the midterms.
More than two-thirds said Trump’s tariff and trade negotiations will have an impact, while 51% also said mid-decade redistricting outcomes would weigh on the election.
Other major events K Street predicts will have an impact in November: the Jeffrey Epstein files (35%); military actions in Venezuela and other foreign nations (24%); and the reconciliation law (23%).
Want to take part in The Canvass? Our survey, in partnership with LSG, provides anonymous monthly insights from top Capitol Hill staffers and K Street leaders on key issues facing Washington. Sign up here if you work on K Street. Click here to sign up if you’re a senior congressional staffer.
