Projects - AP-NORC

2026: The public’s priorities and expectations

The American public’s priorities for the government in 2026 span a wide variety of issues from economic and personal finance issues to policy areas like health care and immigration to concerns about how well Washington is functioning.

Culture and Society

Gift cards and cash are viewed as more appropriate holiday gifts than second-hand items or regifting

About a third of the public celebrates the season by wearing festive holiday attire, leaving up decorations past January 1st, and giving gifts to their pets. Just over half will stay up past midnight to ring in 2026.

Economics

Affordability concerns are driving holiday belt-tightening

About half say they’re cutting back on non-essential shopping and delaying big purchases this holiday season.

Politics

Trump’s approval rating slips on the economy and immigration

Approval of Trump’s handling of the economy and immigration are down about 10 points since March. Border security remains Trump’s best issue with 50% approval.

Economics

Trump’s approval rating remains low during government shutdown

Approval of how Trump is handling the federal government has dropped sharply since March.

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2026: The public’s priorities and expectations

Gift cards and cash are viewed as more appropriate holiday gifts than second-hand items or regifting

Affordability concerns are driving holiday belt-tightening

Trump’s approval rating slips on the economy and immigration

Trump’s approval rating remains low during government shutdown