The federal government has officially shut down. The Democrats and Republicans have thus far been unable to break the bitter deadlock that’s stalled negotiations over a new funding bill for days. Not only are federal workers furloughed until further notice, but many government services, save those considered critical have also been put on pause. This time, the shutdown carries with it the threat of mass layoffs. President Trump has threatened to fire significant numbers of federal workers and permanently cut programs if the Democrats refuse to capitulate.
Resonate data shows that currently 37% of Americans are concerned about the federal government cutting necessary services and funding in the next six months. While this is down from its peak of 40% back in the spring, when Elon Musk’s DOGE was more active and prominent in the headlines, it’s still an increase of just over 1% since August, suggesting that fears are rising and could go up depending on how long the shutdown continues.
Poor leadership in the US government is also of concern to 40% of voters, up about 1% from August 2025. This number has increased during a 40-day period when leaders in the federal government have been particularly at loggerheads, and it may also go up depending on how Capitol Hill chooses to handle this crisis.
Big, impactful events happen quickly. Only Resonate has the data to keep pace with voter sentiment as it evolves in response to what’s going on in the White House. Want the confidence of knowing you have a strategic partner who’s continuously tracking the latest voter behaviors, motivations, and sentiments—and helping you act on them? Learn more about partnering with Resonate.
