Americans, no matter where they sit politically, are increasingly warming up to populist policies that promise to make life more affordable.
A Wall Street Journal survey tested more than 30 policy ideas centered on the cost of living, and the results show voters from all political backgrounds strongly support capping the cost of prescription drugs, child care and credit-card interest rates.
The survey points to bipartisan support for several policies despite widespread dissatisfaction with both major parties. Large majorities favor strong border security alongside a pathway to citizenship for many undocumented immigrants, while a significant share of Democrats also supports requiring photo ID to vote.
Policies receiving the strongest support from both Democratic and Republican voters include banning surprise medical bills, requiring health insurers to cover doctor-prescribed services and medications, and capping credit card interest rates at 10%.
Republican pollster Adam Geller, who conducted the survey with Democratic pollster John Anzalone, said voters view these as “fairness” issues rather than conservative or progressive ones, with large institutions seen as obstacles.
Trump Checks, Mamdani Stores Face Low Support
President Donald Trump's proposal to send $5,000 checks to all adults if Republicans retain congressional majorities was the least popular, with support from fewer than one-quarter of voters.
Voters also showed limited support for government-run stores selling discounted groceries, an affordability proposal backed by New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, with 37% in favor.
Affordability Pressures Shape Midterms
The growing support for populist policies comes at a time when affordability pressures remain elevated ahead of the midterm elections, with consumer prices up 3.4% year over year in August while real average hourly earnings fell 0.3%. Gasoline prices rose 3.9% and drove more than one-third of the monthly CPI increase.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) highlighted that affordability issues, especially soaring diesel prices, have become a major concern for voters. “What's happening in Iran has sort of trumped everything else that's going on,” he said.
Similarly, Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) emphasized that Republicans “need to do more” on cost-of-living issues. He said voters, including farmers and ranchers, are concerned about rising costs and their financial future.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by MarketDash editors.
