Corruption joins the cost of living as a top concern for US voters

U.S. voters are increasingly concerned about government corruption, according to recent polls, as the issue has risen in prominence in the final stretch of the midterm elections. Corruption is now tied with the cost of living as the top worry for many Americans, according to several surveys. In a Fox News poll, 88% of voters expressed "extremely" or "very" concern over corruption in government.

Another survey by Harris for The Guardian found that 90% of Americans view it as a problem, with 76% believing that public officials prioritize personal gain over the well-being of the public. The cost of living remains the more pressing issue, but corruption has quickly gained traction in recent months, with pollster Frank Luntz noting that it has become one of the top concerns for voters just six months ago.

Campaign ads have increasingly referenced government ethics, with references reaching their highest level in 14 years, at around 24% in House races and 16% in Senate races. Democratic candidates have criticized President Donald Trump and his family, particularly in relation to their business dealings and private donations, while Republicans have been accused of unethical practices as well.

Over 51 million people have already cast early ballots, a 25% increase from the 2022 midterms, and current polls favor the Democrats, who require four more seats to control the House and at least four more to gain control of the Senate. Close races are expected in several key states, including Michigan, Alaska, Maine, Iowa, Ohio, Kansas, and Texas. President Trump concluded his campaign on Sunday with rallies in Iowa and Kansas.