Young voters could be key to midterm success, but they've soured on both parties

Updated December 11, 2025 at 6:00 AM EST

As Republicans and Democrats gear up for the midterm elections next year, they're each losing ground with a group that may be key in determining control of Congress: young voters.

Gen Z and millennial Americans are a growing portion of the electorate, estimated to make up roughly half of all eligible voters by 2026. However, these same voters are also feeling increasingly unhappy with the political system that they're poised to dominate in the coming years, notably as they struggle with the high cost of living.

That's reflected in a new poll from the University of Chicago, which shows that nearly 60% disapprove of President Trump's job in office, while just 30% approve, a six-point drop compared to his favorability rating in the survey last y