Seventy percent of Americans doubt President Trump will accept the results of next month’s midterm elections if Republicans lose their congressional majority, according to a new Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll released today. The survey reveals widespread skepticism about the 2026 election outcome crosses party lines, with even more than one-third of Republican voters expressing concern.
The poll found 36 percent of Republicans, 77 percent of independents, and an overwhelming majority of Democrats lack confidence Trump will acknowledge GOP losses if they materialize on November 5th. The findings come as Republicans defend narrow majorities in both the House and Senate, with several key races rated as toss-ups by nonpartisan analysts.
What Voters Fear About Election Night
The survey highlights a fundamental anxiety about the peaceful transfer of power that has followed American elections for nearly 250 years. Respondents indicated concern that a refusal to accept results could trigger political instability at a time when voters rank economic security and border control as their top priorities heading into the midterms.
The doubts span beyond partisan affiliation. More than three-quarters of independent voters—the group that typically decides close elections—told pollsters they expect Trump to contest unfavorable results. These voters have historically valued stability and clear governance, making their skepticism particularly notable for both parties’ campaign strategies in the final weeks.
Stakes for Congressional Control
Republicans currently hold slim margins in both chambers, with Democrats targeting vulnerable seats in suburban districts that flipped to GOP control in 2024. Control of Congress will determine everything from budget negotiations to oversight authority over federal agencies—issues that directly affect voters’ daily lives through tax policy, spending decisions, and regulatory enforcement.
The White House has not yet commented on the poll findings. Trump campaign officials did not respond to requests for comment about whether the president will commit to accepting certified election results regardless of outcome.
Midterm elections typically serve as a referendum on the sitting president’s first two years in office. With just over two weeks until Election Day, both parties are mobilizing voters in battleground districts while navigating questions about election integrity that have dominated political discourse since 2020.
Key Points
- 70% of Americans doubt Trump will accept midterm results if Republicans lose Congress
- More than one-third of Republican voters share concerns about election acceptance
- Independents show highest skepticism at 77%, a critical voting bloc for both parties
https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/6160085-donald-trump-midterm-results-poll/ – October 20, 2026
