A recent POLITICO Poll indicates significant concerns among Americans regarding the integrity of elections, particularly as the 2026 midterms approach. Over one-third of respondents believe it is likely that the upcoming elections will be 'stolen,' while one in four do not expect them to be fair. The poll highlights stark differences between Republican and Democratic voters regarding their perceptions of election integrity issues.
Democrats express worries about voter intimidation and suppression, with 58% of those who voted for Kamala Harris concerned that eligible voters may be prevented from casting their ballots. In contrast, 52% of Trump voters are focused on the potential for fraud, fearing that ineligible individuals may be allowed to vote.
The poll surveyed opinions on 11 common election concerns, revealing significant disagreement between the parties on six key issues. For instance, while a majority of Trump voters now view expanding mail-in voting as a potential means to rig elections, 59% of Harris voters consider it a fair practice.
Concerns about the presence of ICE at polling locations also differ, with a majority of Harris voters believing it would sway election results, while a plurality of Trump voters see it as a fair measure. The divergence in views underscores the lack of consensus on what constitutes a free and fair election.
Experts, including Stephen Richer from the Cato Institute, emphasize the need for a clearer definition of election integrity. The poll results show that nearly half of Americans still expect the 2026 midterms to be fair, despite the prevailing rhetoric from political leaders.
David Becker from the Center for Election Innovation & Research notes that the partisan divide is exacerbated by media echo chambers, leading voters to reinforce their existing beliefs. The survey also indicates that concerns about election integrity have increased among Democrats, paralleling Trump's continued claims regarding the 2020 election.
Overall, while there are areas of agreement on issues like same-day voter registration and gerrymandering, the ongoing partisan divide is contributing to a decline in voter confidence, according to experts like Wendy Weiser from the Brennan Center for Justice.