Posted on 01/13/26
| News Source: FOX45
Annapolis. MD - Jan. 13, 2026 - According to a recent Gonzales Poll, "there is a growing sense of civic exhaustion among Americans."
Released on Tuesday, the poll highlights a shift from "deliberation to a competition for attention."
The results of the poll show this has led to a quiet fatigue, with many feeling that the essence of democracy is being overshadowed by "theatrical displays."
In Maryland, the poll shows that 52% of voters approve of Gov. Wes Moore's performance, while 41% disapprove and 7% remain undecided. This marks a significant decline from his previous approval rating of 64%, with disapproval rising from 25% to 41%. The narrowing gap indicates a tightening political landscape for Moore.
The poll also reveals a divided sentiment among Marylanders regarding the state's direction, with 47% believing it is moving in the right direction and 44% feeling it is headed the wrong way.
This ambivalence reflects a broader uncertainty about progress and decline within the state.
Taxation remains a contentious issue, with 58% of Maryland voters feeling they pay too much in taxes, while only 1% believe they pay too little.
Meanwhile, 41% think their tax contributions are about right. This dissatisfaction may reflect deeper concerns about the reciprocity of the social contract in Maryland.
If the gubernatorial election were held today, 50% of voters would re-elect Gov. Moore, compared to 28% who would support a Republican challenger, 6% who would opt for a third-party candidate, and 16% who remain undecided.
Notably, among those who feel they pay too much in taxes, a hypothetical Republican candidate leads Moore by 13 points, 47% to 34%.