Shock Poll: Democrats closing gap with Republicans ahead of midterm elections

Democrats surveyed in the poll believe gun policies are the most important issue facing America today

A new poll has found that Democrats and Republicans are neck and neck in the upcoming midterm elections, with Democrats citing gun violence as their number one concern even as the economy continues to tumble.

The Sienna College Research Institute poll, conducted on behalf of the New York Times between July 5 and 7 among 849 registered voters, found the race to control Congress is tight, with voters preferring Democrats to Republicans by just one percentage point, 41%-40%. Nineteen percent of respondents remain undecided.

However, among likely voters, the Times noted that 44% favored Republicans while 43% expressed support for Democrats in congressional races.

While Republicans place significant focus on the economy ahead of the midterm elections, with 29% labeling it as the "most important problem" facing America today, Democrats who took part in the poll believe there are higher priorities.

Only 13% of Democrats labeled the economy as the most pressing crisis in the U.S., compared to the 17% who insisted gun policies are the most important concern. As for inflation and the cost of living, 26% of Republicans and 10% of Democrats listed it as the number one issue.

The poll also found an overwhelming 77% of those surveyed believe the nation is headed in the "wrong direction." Among party lines, 89% of Republicans believe the U.S. is headed in the wrong direction, compared to 63% of Democrats. Ten percent said they are unsure or do not have an opinion.