A Fox News/NORC study reveals that as voters look ahead to the 2028 presidential election, economic concerns dominate their priorities across party lines [1]. The poll shows that six in 10 voters feel they are holding steady financially, while about three in 10 feel they are falling behind, and only about one in 10 feel they are getting ahead [1]. When asked about immediate policy priorities for newly elected officials in 2027, three in 10 voters want action on grocery costs, about two in 10 want attention to gas prices, and a similar share prioritize healthcare and prescription drug costs [1].
The survey indicates a significant divide in economic optimism tied to personal financial circumstances [1]. Approximately two-thirds of voters who report getting ahead financially are optimistic about the country's future, while about two-thirds of those falling behind believe the country's best days are in the past [1]. This sentiment reflects broader voter anxiety about economic conditions, with voters across party lines identifying improving economic conditions as the most important issue for the country to address over the next five years [1].
Regarding Trump's political legacy and the 2028 succession, the poll shows mixed support among Republicans [1]. Nearly four in 10 MAGA Republicans want Trump's successor to emulate both his policies and style, while about half want the next president to follow his policies alone [1]. However, non-MAGA Republicans are less enthusiastic, with only 45% wanting his policies to continue and just 15% wanting a president with the same style [1]. Independents overwhelmingly prefer a different direction, with six in 10 wanting the next president to break with both Trump's policies and style [1]. Despite Trump's approval rating standing at 39%, a bloc of voters remains loyal to the president, with 26% wanting a successor to carry on his policies and another 12% wanting the next president to copy both his policies and style [1].
CONCLUSION
The Fox News/NORC poll underscores that economic anxiety—particularly regarding grocery and gas prices—will be the dominant issue shaping the 2028 presidential election, with voter sentiment closely tied to personal financial circumstances. While Trump maintains a loyal base of supporters, the broader electorate remains divided on his political legacy, with independents and Democrats seeking a significant departure from his policies and style. Market participants should monitor how these economic concerns translate into policy priorities, as inflation-sensitive sectors and consumer spending patterns will likely remain focal points for investors assessing political and economic trajectories.