Richard Barris, a frequent WarRoom guest, gave updated and crucial insights into why the media’s narrative surrounding Democratic voters and the broader electorate is flawed. Barris asserts that the mainstream media continually misreads key demographic trends, particularly regarding economically disadvantaged and traditionally Democratic voters who are now leaning toward Donald Trump.
Barris’ polling data suggests a sharp shift in voting preferences due to economic realities. Inflation and the perceived failure of Biden’s administration to safeguard the social safety net have weakened the support of low-income voters for Democrats. Barris emphasizes, "There’s a massive economic pain right now, especially for Black men under 45, and that’s where the data is showing a drift toward Trump.”
MEDIA IS IGNORING WORKING VOTERS WHO HAVE SHIFTED TO TRUMP
These voters, who are struggling to make ends meet, are becoming disillusioned with Biden’s promises and are now resonating with Trump’s messages of job creation and economic revival.
Barris also touches on an often overlooked group: voters who are self-made, without formal education, but have managed to climb the income ladder. "These people aren’t dependent on the government; they made it on their own,” he states, highlighting a demographic that continues to back Trump. According to Barris, this group is largely comprised of blue-collar workers and entrepreneurs, a segment that polls show have a strong alignment with Trump’s economic platform.
One of Barris’ more striking observations is how the media frequently fails to poll and accurately reflect these voters’ shifting preferences. He notes, "The media’s message is often out of touch with the actual concerns of everyday Americans.” According to him, mainstream narratives are largely shaped by elite interests, ignoring the economic pain felt by the average voter. This, he argues, results in skewed polling that fails to capture the full scope of dissatisfaction with the current administration.
He further points out the challenges of polling low-income voters, particularly those disillusioned with the political system. "The media often struggles to reach these voters in the first place,” Barris explains, noting that low-income voters are not always responsive to traditional polling methods. This group, he says, is more likely to fall off the radar due to the instability in their day-to-day lives. However, when reached, their frustrations are clear, and their preference for change is becoming increasingly evident.
HERE IS WHAT HIS POLLING SHOWS
The gap between what the media portrays and what polling data reveals could have significant consequences in upcoming elections. As Barris puts it, Trump "consistently performs better on key questions,” particularly on topics related to change and the country’s future direction. This disconnect may prove pivotal as media outlets continue to misjudge voter sentiment while Trump capitalizes on economic dissatisfaction.
Barris suggests that Harris’s perceived liberalism could alienate a broad swath of voters seeking stability and economic recovery, rather than progressive policy shifts.
As Barris concludes, "It’s all about economics right now.”
His analysis reveals the profound disconnect between media messaging and voter realities—particularly those hit hardest by inflation and economic insecurity. If his polling holds true, these voters could turn the tide in favor of Trump in the next election.
Watch the entire interview with Richard Barris:
