Oregonians Show a Big Change in Polling as November Election Approaches
PORTLAND, Ore. — As November’s election draws closer, what’s top of mind for Oregon voters this time around, has made a major switch from the last time they went to the polls for a major election.
John Horvick’s at DHM Research, where for two decades he’s regularly surveyed Oregonians. He says the latest polling finds them most concerned about affordability.
“The cost of everyday things like groceries, gasoline, utilities.”
That’s a big change from four years ago.
“Homelessness was sky high.”
He says that’s no longer the biggest concern. And though Oregonians are worried about costs, they’re more confident about their wallets.
“We asked Oregonians, how is your personal financial situation? And it’s still pretty good. Most Oregonians say that they’re in good financial shape.”
Taking the temperature of Oregon voters before this November’s election, DHM researcher Horvick notes, ” In 2026, right now, about 25% of Oregonians say that the state is headed in the right direction.”
That’s much lower than the average over the last three decades of 45%.
“Big picture, Oregonians are not happy with the way that things are going.”
But unlike four years ago, when pollsters were more likely to hear complaints about homelessness and crime, “We hear a lot about just the politics aren’t working, government isn’t working, just a sense that the system is broken.”