50+ voters made up 60% of the electorate, and prioritized affordability, financial stability, and Social Security; 50+ independent voters were the bellwether

November 5, 2026 - WASHINGTON – Voters have entrusted a new Congress with addressing challenges that directly affect the health and financial security of 125 million older Americans. Ultimately, 50+ voters made up 60% of the 2026 midterm electorate, according to NORC’s election poll data. They were concerned about issues like affordability, financial security, Social Security and Medicare – not only for themselves but for their families. Ninety percent of older voters, and 80% of all voters, for example, said it is very or extremely important to protect Social Security from cuts.

Image by Tung Lam from Pixabay

AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond issued the following statement:

Older voters showed up and made their voices heard, and now it’s Congress’s turn to deliver. The 120th Congress must turn quickly to the serious challenges facing every kitchen table in America. Incoming lawmakers will shape the future of Social Security and Medicare, determine how family caregivers can receive greater support, and affect health care costs and the economic security of millions of Americans.

AARP urges the new Congress to work across party lines to strengthen Social Security without cutting the benefits people have earned that improve the lives of older Americans and their families. Older voters will be watching.

AARP polling leading up to the election showed that older women were a key persuadable demographic this year, and data from NORC shows that older women broke for Democrats by 9 points. Older voters were extremely motivated to vote, even before Election Day. Further data showed that:

• 50+ independent voters were a bellwether in this election: Democrats won 50+ independent voters by 22 points (56% - 32%).
• Democrats won older women by 9 points, and Republicans won older men by 5 points.
• The economy was the top issue for older voters, with the cost of groceries (29%), health care and prescription drugs (24%) and the cost of gas (21%) being important in determining their votes.