The shocking murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk has rattled the Republican Party and sent a wave of concern across the nation. A new poll now reveals that more GOP voters believe America is headed in the wrong direction, signaling deep divisions inside the party and uncertainty about the future of the MAGA movement.
GOP Confidence Collapses After Kirk’s Death
According to a new Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research survey, 51% of Republican voters now say the country is on the wrong track—a dramatic increase from 29% in June.
This surge comes just days after the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a beloved figure in the conservative movement and founder of Turning Point USA. Many conservatives view the tragedy as a turning point for the nation, raising questions about safety, leadership, and the state of law and order.
Key Takeaway:
- June: 29% of Republicans unhappy with the country’s direction
- September: 51% now say America is heading the wrong way
National Mood Turns Darker
It’s not just Republicans feeling uneasy. Across the country, 75% of U.S. adults now say the nation is on the wrong path—up sharply from 62% in June.
Democrats’ outlook remains mostly unchanged, as many have been dissatisfied since President Donald Trump’s stunning 2024 election victory. But among conservatives, the mood has shifted sharply in the wake of Kirk’s killing.
Charlie Kirk’s Murder Shocks the Nation
Charlie Kirk, just 30 years old, was gunned down last Wednesday while speaking at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah.
Following a massive manhunt, authorities arrested Tyler Robinson, 22, who is now charged with capital murder. Utah prosecutors have announced they will seek the death penalty, reflecting the gravity of the crime.
The attack has sparked outrage among conservatives and renewed fears about political violence targeting prominent right-leaning voices.
Divisions Inside the GOP
The poll shows deep fractures within the Republican base:
- Younger Republicans under 45 are far more likely to say the country is on the wrong track (61%) compared to 43% of older voters.
- Republican women (60%) are more likely than men (43%) to believe America is heading down the wrong path.
These splits highlight growing concern among conservative voters who feel the government isn’t doing enough to protect free speech, secure communities, or uphold traditional values.
Trump’s Approval Rating Under Pressure
Despite the turmoil, President Trump’s strongest issue remains border security, where 55% approve of his performance.
He also scores 46% approval on crime, reflecting his tough-on-crime policies that remain popular among conservatives.
However, his numbers are lower on trade, the economy, health care, and foreign policy, with only about 4 in 10 Americans approving of his handling of those issues.
- Overall Trump approval: 39%
- Disapproval: 60%
A separate YouGov/Economist poll released this week shows similar results, with 39% approval and 57% disapproval, underscoring the challenges ahead for the administration.
Survey Details
- Poll conducted by: AP-NORC
- Dates: Sept. 11–15
- Sample size: 1,183 adults
- Margin of error: ±3.9%
Why This Matters
The tragic death of Charlie Kirk has become more than just a personal loss for conservatives—it has shaken the MAGA movement to its core.
With Republican voters increasingly divided, and Trump’s approval ratings struggling, this moment could define the future of the GOP heading into the 2026 midterms and beyond.