TL/DR –
The 2026 North Carolina Political Landscape Report from the Elon University Poll suggests that most North Carolinians identify themselves based on work, community, place, and shared civic values rather than political movements or ideological labels. Among the identities most commonly selected by the respondents are working class (77%), anti-racist (74%), and proud North Carolinian (74%), while identities associated with ideological movements, such as MAGA and democratic socialism, are embraced by substantially fewer North Carolinians. The report also notes that despite partisan disagreements, there is a substantial overlap of group identities among Republicans, Democrats, and Independents, indicating a broader common foundation.
North Carolinians’ Political Identities More Nuanced Than Assumed
A new report from Elon University suggests that North Carolinians’ political identities are more diverse and nuanced than generally portrayed. According to the 2026 North Carolina Political Landscape Report, most North Carolinians align themselves with work, community, place, and shared civic values rather than political movements or ideological labels.
“Winning coalitions of voters hinge on group attachments beyond political affiliations,” stated Jason Husser, director of the Elon University Poll. The findings underline that outcomes in North Carolina’s elections depend on politicians’ appeal to diverse group identities, including the working class, progressives, and Second Amendment advocates.
The report indicates that broader identities, such as working-class (77%), anti-racist (74%), and proud North Carolinian (74%), are more widely adopted across the state, while political brands like MAGA (34%) and democratic socialism (29%) find lesser affinity.
Overlap Among Different Political Affiliations
The survey reveals substantial overlap among Republicans, Democrats, and Independents in the state, particularly around the identities of working class, proud North Carolinian, and anti-racist. Notably, these shared identities hold despite publicized partisan disagreements, suggesting a broader common foundation.
“Stereotypical thinking about Democrats and Republicans being monolithic is debunked by overlapping group identities within North Carolina. People with different political preferences often share many self-perceptions,” Husser explained.
Distinctive Identities Among Political Movements
While Republicans align more with identities such as Second Amendment advocates and MAGA supporters, Democrats identify more with progressives, social justice advocates, and environmentalists. Independents, on the other hand, emphasize community and lifestyle over partisan ideology.
Varied Views of Government
North Carolinians’ views of government resist simplistic categorization. Although a majority favor a larger government providing more services and support more assistance for the needy despite higher taxes, trust in the federal government remains low.
Access the full report and methodology at elon.edu/elonpoll.
About Elon University Poll
Elon University Poll, established in 2000, conducts surveys on vital issues to voters and residents. It aims to facilitate informed public policymaking through the dissemination of citizens’ opinions and attitudes. The poll, fully funded by Elon University, operates as an unbiased information resource and is a charter member of the Transparency Initiative, a program designed by the American Association for Public Opinion Research to ensure transparency in polling practices.
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