Since the government shutdown began earlier this month, Democrats have sought to blame President Trump and Republicans for the crisis. However, recent data suggests their efforts are failing. CNN Senior Data Reporter Harry Enten confirmed on-air that Republican approval ratings have risen significantly during the shutdown, particularly among independents.
Enten highlighted that the Republican Party’s net popularity increased by two points compared to pre-shutdown levels, with congressional Republicans seeing a five-point rise in approval. Among independents, the party’s net approval rating jumped eight points, while its base saw a 12-point gain. This shift has left Republicans in a stronger political position despite controlling Congress.
The analysis also noted that President Trump’s approval rating has improved, with his net approval reaching +1 after 20 days of the shutdown. Less than a majority of voters blamed him for the crisis. Meanwhile, Democrats face challenges as their generic Congressional ballot lead has dwindled to three points, the worst position for the party at this stage of a midterm cycle under a Republican president in two decades.
The findings underscore growing public support for Republicans amid the ongoing political stalemate.