Addressing Voter Demands for Practical Solutions Over Ideological Battles

The Democratic Party finds itself in a significant debate regarding its direction. Recent elections have highlighted the influence of its progressive wing, sparking a wider discussion on American politics. These events are noteworthy, yet they often lead to a narrow focus on primary elections and activist politics. However, primary voters do not represent the general electorate. The broader American public signals differing priorities.

Having spent over three decades serving working communities in Congress, we firmly believe that public servants should deliver results for their constituents, not merely debate. This conviction led us to Next American Era and prompted our collaboration with Morning Consult to explore voters’ priorities ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Voters express a need for something different than Washington currently provides.

Leaders and commentators often depict the U.S. as deeply divided. Yet our research indicates that Americans desire leaders who solve problems. Most voters prefer concrete, practical solutions instead of sweeping ideological changes. Data reveals that 60% of voters favor targeted solutions to specific issues, minimizing disruption regardless of political affiliation. This desire for cooperative action is evident among 72% of progressives and 71% of MAGA Republicans, highlighting consensus across the political spectrum.

Additionally, three out of four voters want compromise between elected officials and the opposition to build sustainable solutions. Results-oriented governance is a priority for two-thirds of voters, even if it requires concessions to the other side. The current economic situation underscores the urgency of these findings. With 58% of voters believing the nation is on the wrong track, issues like inflation, energy costs, and healthcare expenses dominate concerns. These pressing issues impact families’ abilities to meet their financial obligations.

Significantly, when voters review policy descriptions, moderate approaches often surpass both progressive and MAGA options. Moderates hold an advantage in tariffs (+19 points), market competition (+14), and workforce development (+14) over progressives, and in AI oversight (+27), gas prices (+19), and tariffs (+19) over MAGA policies. Trust in Democrats slightly edges out Republicans across these issues, notably in childcare, healthcare, and housing affordability. Yet, one in four voters lacks confidence in either party’s solutions, indicating a need for improvement.

The poll does not call for timid, compromise-based politics. Voters desire effective leadership, not less ambition. Achieving tangible results is the priority, not ideological battles. Success lies in focusing on results over partisan conflict. Leaders should heed voters’ calls for a practical approach to governance. As the 2026 midterms approach, there’s a choice for leaders: continue ideological conflicts resulting in distrust or pivot to governance reflecting voters’ priorities. Our path is clear, and we hope more in Washington will join us.

Cheri Bustos serves as president of Next American Era and formerly chaired the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. She represented Illinois’s 17th District in Congress from 2013 to 2023. Joe Crowley is a senior advisor to Next American Era and the former chair of the House Democratic Caucus, having represented New York’s 14th District from 1999 to 2019.