Story perspectives

Independents Turn Against Trump as 2026 Midterms Loom

By Drooid · Oct 12, 2026, 2:46 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Independents Excited

Emerson College poll finds 70% of independent voters are very excited about the 2026 midterms.
Campaigns must work harder to mobilize independents because their turnout usually lags party bases.
YouGov survey shows only 23% of independents approve President Donald Trump’s performance.
Fox News poll reports 73% of independents say Trump has worsened the economy.

Summary

Localities Propose Levies

Lebanon City School District in Ohio proposes a 1% earned-income tax expected to raise $13.5 million annually.
Turtlecreek Township seeks a $4.5 million property-tax levy projected to generate $3.59 million each year for fire and EMS services.
Broward County charter question one would add a 0.25% sales surtax for five years to fund health-care.
California Proposition 40 proposes a one-time 5% billionaire wealth tax aimed at raising tens of billions for health-care.

History

Historical Context

Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign pioneered internet fundraising and voter-file tools, raising $133 million in the first quarter—more than the entire 2007 total—and winning roughly one-third of independent voters (RealClear poll, Oct 2008). That grassroots, data-driven model underlies today’s independent enthusiasm, reflected in Emerson College’s 2026 poll showing 70% excitement and proposals to fund services through new taxes.

1 of 3

Independents Excited

Emerson College poll finds 70% of independent voters are very excited about the 2026 midterms.
Campaigns must work harder to mobilize independents because their turnout usually lags party bases.
YouGov survey shows only 23% of independents approve President Donald Trump’s performance.
Fox News poll reports 73% of independents say Trump has worsened the economy.

1 / 3