A survey by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research reveals a sharp contrast in how Democrats and Republicans perceive their own political parties. Findings indicate Republicans hold a largely positive view of their party, while Democrats display more self-criticism and dissatisfaction regarding the direction of their party and its effectiveness in addressing national issues.
The survey found that 35 percent of Democrats used negative descriptors for their party, with common terms such as weak, broken, or ineffective. Only 23 percent of these surveyed individuals described the Democratic Party positively, frequently using words like empathetic or inclusive. This self-critical attitude suggests internal divisions and declining confidence among Democrats heading into upcoming electoral cycles.
In contrast, only 19 percent of Republicans offered negative descriptions of their own party. A striking 61 percent of Republicans characterized their party positively, often highlighting values such as patriotism, conservatism, and common sense. The higher positivity among Republicans indicates stronger internal morale and a more unified perception of the identity and mission of their party. Below are further details:
• Self-perception of Democrats: 35 percent used negative descriptors for their own party, frequently calling it weak, broken, or ineffective. Only 23 percent offered positive descriptions, commonly using words like empathetic or inclusive. Smaller groups referred to ideology, specific policies, welfare programs, or diversity and inclusion efforts.
• Self-perception of Republicans: 19 percent expressed negative views of their party, with criticisms such as greedy or corrupt. 41 percent used positive terms like pro‑American, common sense, or representative of the middle class. 13percent referred to ideology, mainly identifying their party as conservative, while a few cited specific policies.
• Public Perception of Both Parties: Moreover, aside from party-specific self-perception, the poll covered public perception. 39 percent of Americans described Democrats negatively, and 43 percent described Republicans negatively. 11percent of Americans viewed Democrats positively, compared to 18 percent for Republicans.
• Broader Trends and Implications: Optimism among Democrats has sharply declined compared to previous years. Republicans demonstrate stronger internal unity and more confidence in their leadership and ideology. Democrats face a strategic challenge to address internal criticisms and rebuild their identity before the 2026 midterms.
The AP‑NORC survey was conducted in July 2025 and gathered responses from a nationally representative sample of American adults. 1437 Participants were asked open‑ended questions regarding their views of both the Democratic and Republican parties. Responses were categorized by sentiment, including positive, negative, ideological, and policy‑based descriptors, to identify patterns in party perception and internal morale.
Data from the poll and other previous polls indicate that dissatisfaction among Democrats has intensified compared to previous years. Respondents expressed frustration over leadership and messaging, frequently describing the party as lacking strength or focus. Conversely, Republicans appear more confident in their leadership and ideological clarity, which could have implications for future electoral strategies and campaign messaging.
The findings from the AP-NORC poll underscore a growing morale gap between the two major political parties in the United States. Moreover, as the 2026 midterm elections approach, Democrats face the challenge of addressing internal criticisms and strengthening their identity, while Republicans may leverage their stronger internal cohesion to maintain voter support and consolidate influence in upcoming political contests.
FURTHER READING AND REFERENCE
- AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. July 2025. “Republicans Remain Positive About Their Party; Democrats Are More Self-critical.” AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. Available online