A new POLITICO poll indicates that MAGA voters are more likely than other groups to continue supporting Republican candidates even when faced with serious allegations or scandals.
Key facts
- •Two-thirds of MAGA voters would support a GOP candidate accused of sexual assault.
- •72 percent of MAGA voters would stick with a candidate accused of domestic violence.
- •40 percent of Harris voters would continue to support a Democrat accused of sexual assault.
- •71 percent of Republicans believe a Democrat accused of sexual assault should drop out, while 52 percent say the same for a Republican candidate.
- •The poll was conducted by the independent U.K.-based firm Public First.
A POLITICO poll conducted by Public First reveals that supporters of President Donald Trump who identify as MAGA are the most loyal voting bloc regarding political scandals. Majorities of these voters report they would continue to support GOP candidates facing various controversies, including allegations of domestic violence and sexual assault. This level of loyalty exceeds that of the broader 2024 Trump voting coalition and significantly surpasses the support levels found among voters who backed Kamala Harris.
Voter Loyalty Across Scandal Scenarios
The survey tested a dozen hypothetical scenarios, finding that MAGA voters remained committed to GOP candidates across every instance. For example, 72 percent of MAGA voters would support a candidate accused of domestic violence, compared to 61 percent of the overall Trump 2024 coalition and 39 percent of Harris voters. Regarding sexual assault allegations, 66 percent of MAGA voters would maintain their support, while only 40 percent of Harris voters would do the same for a Democratic candidate.
Partisan Differences in Scandal Tolerance
The poll highlights a significant partisan gap in how voters view accountability. While voters across the spectrum show some tolerance for issues like DUI convictions or tax loopholes, Harris voters are more likely to abandon a candidate or stay home when faced with serious allegations like sexual assault. Conversely, Republican voters are more likely to demand that a Democratic candidate drop out over a scandal than they are to demand the same of a Republican candidate facing an identical accusation.
Impact on Recent Political Races
The findings reflect trends observed in the 2026 midterm cycle, where candidates such as Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Arizona House nominee Mark Lamb have maintained support despite controversies. In Maine, Democrats supported Senate candidate Graham Platner through several scandals until a sexual assault allegation led to his withdrawal. Strategists note that for many voters, scandal has become a secondary factor in a broader partisan calculation rather than a definitive disqualifier.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Politico.
