A recent Yale poll has reportedly now revealed that Sen. John Fetterman (D-PA) and ESPN host Stephen A. Smith are among the least popular figures among Democratic voters, both registering negative net favorability ratings.
The survey, part of the Yale Youth Poll conducted in early April 2025, assessed potential candidates for the 2028 election and highlighted the struggles of these two individuals with young party voters.
Fetterman, known for his bipartisan approach and pro-Israel stance, garnered a net favorability of -17.2 among registered Democrats.
Meanwhile, Smith, who has been vocal about a possible presidential run, had a slightly lower net favorability at -16.9. This survey indicates that both figures face significant challenges within their party.
In contrast, former Vice President Kamala Harris emerged as the preferred candidate among Democratic voters, receiving 27.5% support, followed by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (21.3%) and Pete Buttigieg (14%).
Harris and Ocasio-Cortez also enjoy high favorability ratings, each around +60.
Interestingly, among young Democrats specifically, support for Harris and Ocasio-Cortez increases to 37.4% and 28.2%, respectively, while Buttigieg’s support drops to 9.7%.
The poll was conducted online from April 1 to April 3, involving 4,100 registered voters, including 2,025 under the age of 30, and has a margin of error of +/- 1.9 percentage points.
The findings underscore the shifting preferences within the Democratic Party and highlight the challenges Fetterman and Smith face as they navigate their political futures.
As the 2028 election approaches, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for party leaders and candidates alike.
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