Congressional Productivity Hits Modern Low Amid Rising Voter Frustration

As we enter 2026, Congress is facing heightened voter dissatisfaction amid record-low legislative output in 2025.

Legislation: C-SPAN and Purdue University data shows 38 bills were signed into law in 2025, marking the lowest legislative output for the first year of a new presidency since records began in 2010. Despite the limited number of enacted laws, the Senate held 659 roll-call votes with nearly 60% focusing on advancing President Donald Trump's executive and judicial nominees. Meanwhile, the House recorded 362 votes–a 21st-century low for the first session of a two-year Congress. 

Public Dissatisfaction: A Gallup survey also found 74% of Americans disapprove of Democrats in Congress and 70% disapprove of Republicans, while 80% said Congress overall is failing to do its job. Straight Arrow News (Center bias) reported polls reveal a narrowing gap between parties in voter preference for House control. Meanwhile, more than 50 lawmakers from both parties have announced plans to leave Congress, placing the House on pace to set a modern record for retirements. 

How the Media Covered It: Outlets across the political spectrum highlighted Republican dissatisfaction with 2025 results ahead of midterms. The Hill (Center) noted several lawmakers' "frustration" with inaction in Congress and their plans to run for state office or step back from politics. It wrote lawmakers' exits could be "particularly ominous for Republicans" and potentially reflect 2018, which it said was "a dismal midterm year for the GOP." Washington Post (Lean Left) cited GOP representatives acknowledging limited legislative accomplishments and criticizing reliance on executive orders. It also quoted Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) saying despite some achievements, the year was marked by polarization and divisiveness "unlike any other." The Daily Caller (Right) highlighted Republicans' achievements in 2025 and the lack of legislative output. It noted slowdowns in the Senate and House including the government shutdown and internal disagreements, and wrote "Republicans remain divided on their next steps" as they govern with a "razor-thin" majority.

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