A new PBS News/NPR/Marist poll shows Democrats with a commanding advantage heading into the 2026 midterm cycle, with 55% of voters saying they would choose a Democrat for Congress if elections were held today, compared to 41% who would vote Republican.

The 14-point spread is the party’s strongest showing since November 2017. In the 2018 midterms that followed, Democrats flipped more than 40 House seats during President Trump’s first term.

The latest numbers highlight growing voter frustration with the GOP amid recent political turbulence, signaling potential headwinds for Republicans as they approach a critical election year.

Democrats also hold a decisive lead among independents. According to the poll, 61% of independents would vote for a Democrat, while just 28% would choose a Republican — a +33 advantage.

With control of both chambers up for grabs in 2026, the survey suggests Democrats head into the cycle in a strong position.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)