As the government shutdown in the U.S. continues this week a Quinnipiac poll shows voters blame Republicans in Congress slightly more than Democrats. The survey also finds low congressional approval and a tilt toward Democrats for House control. The poll was conducted Oct. 16–20, 2025.
What the poll found
Forty-five percent of registered voters say Republicans in Congress are more responsible for the shutdown. Thirty-nine percent blame Democrats. Eleven percent volunteered that both parties are equally responsible.
Congressional job approval is weak. Twenty-six percent approve of Democrats in Congress. Sixty-seven percent disapprove. Thirty-five percent approve of Republicans in Congress, while 59 percent disapprove.
If the midterms were held today, 50 percent of voters would prefer Democrats to win control of the U.S. House. Forty-one percent would prefer Republicans. Among independents, 52 percent favor Democrats for House control.
How this matters
Low approval and blame attribution shape midterm dynamics. Voters leaning toward the party they blame less improves that party’s messaging in swing districts. The preference for Democratic control of the House may influence campaign strategies and fundraising.
Notable cross-issue context
President Trump’s overall approval in the poll is 40 percent approve and 54 percent disapprove. His handling of the Israel–Hamas conflict scored higher, with 47 percent approval. Trump’s handling of the economy hit a new low in this series of polling. These issue ratings intersect with voter attitudes toward Congress and may affect blame and vote choice.
What voters say about fairness and prosecution
A majority, 52 percent, say Trump is using the Justice Department to file unjustified charges against political opponents. Thirty-eight percent say the charges are justified under the law. Views on this split sharply along party lines.
Key takeaways
- Republicans get slightly more blame for the shutdown.
- Voter preference favors Democrats for House control 50% to 41%.
- Congressional approval remains deeply negative for both parties.
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