New Fox News Poll Shows Voters Crave Major Change, Economic Relief

A new Fox News poll reveals deep voter discontent with the economy and both political parties, with 70% saying the Republican Party is tied to elite interests and 55% saying the same about the Democratic Party. The survey, conducted July 17-20, 2026, shows 4 in 10 voters want dramatic or revolutionary change, and economic pessimism remains high.

For Iowa, the findings carry weight. The state's economy, heavily reliant on agriculture and manufacturing, is feeling the pinch of inflation and high interest rates. Many Iowa families are struggling with rising costs for groceries, fuel, and farm inputs.

Voters Want New Faces in Washington

By a 2-to-1 margin, voters say it is more important to elect new people than keep those with experience. Nearly 7 in 10 disapprove of both Democrats and Republicans in Congress. And 85% support a mandatory retirement age for members of Congress, up 20 points since 2002.

“Both think elected officials answer to the elites, both think the system is rigged, both want to see new blood in office, both feel betrayed by their party,” said Republican pollster Daron Shaw, who conducts the Fox News poll with Democrat Chris Anderson.

In Iowa, where Republican leaders have championed tax cuts and deregulation, the call for new leadership could reshape primary and general election races.

Economy Remains Top Concern

Three-quarters of voters rate the economy negatively, a figure that has held steady for six months. Another three-quarters say inflation has caused them financial hardship, including 34% who report serious hardship, up from 26% last year.

President Donald Trump’s job approval sits at 39%, unchanged for three months and one point above his record low. On the economy, only 33% approve of his handling. On inflation, that number drops to 27%.

“Iowa farmers and small business owners are feeling the pinch every day,” said John Damon, an Iowa-based political analyst. “The poll confirms what many here already know: the economy isn’t working for them.”

Fifty-four percent expect the economy to worsen in the coming year. Only Republicans express optimism (71%), while Democrats (75%) and independents (64%) expect it to worsen.

Democratic Enthusiasm Gap

More Democrats (68%) say they are extremely motivated to vote in November than Republicans (57%). Among MAGA Republicans, 66% are extremely motivated, compared to 41% of non-MAGA Republicans.

If the election were today, 53% of voters would back the Democratic candidate in their House district and 46% the Republican. That 7-point edge is just outside the poll’s margin of error and is the highest Democratic share on the generic House ballot in Fox News polling since 1996.

However, Shaw cautioned that the GOP could still retain the House if Democrats win the national vote by 2-3 points, but if they win by 6-7 points, they likely take control.

Views on Key Issues

Voters say Democrats can better handle income inequality (+22 points), healthcare (+21), inflation (+10), the economy (+9), and foreign policy (+7). Republicans hold the advantage on crime (+7 points). On immigration, the GOP had an 8-point edge in April, but now Democrats are preferred by one point.

On government spending, Democrats lead by 3 points. National security is evenly split.

Changing Views on Capitalism and Socialism

Just 50% of voters have a positive view of capitalism, down from 57% in 2019. Socialism is viewed favorably by 30%, up from 27% last year. Among Democrats, 52% view socialism favorably, while 61% of Republicans view capitalism favorably.

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders is the most popular figure tested, with 45% favorable. Vice President JD Vance sits at 41%, Trump at 38%, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez at 35%.

What This Means for Iowa

For Iowa voters, the poll underscores a desire for change that cuts across party lines. With the state’s agricultural economy under pressure and inflation hitting household budgets, the November election could hinge on which party best addresses economic anxiety and a perceived rigged system.

“Iowa is a bellwether state,” Damon said. “If voters here are frustrated, it’s a signal for the entire country.”

The poll surveyed 1,003 registered voters and has a margin of error of ±3 percentage points.