Poll in Turkey: AKP to lead, economy continues to oppress

According to the survey, the AKP receives 34% support, compared to 32.1% for the “Republican People’s Party” (CHP). The People’s Democratic Party (DEM) is in third place with 10.7%, while the National Movement Party (MHP) maintains stability with 8.1%. The İYİ and Zafer parties continue to falter in low percentages, around 4% and 3% respectively.

However, the main figure emerging from the survey concerns the economic situation. Over 65% of the respondents expressed a lack of confidence in the management of the economy, and only about 17% said that they trust the economic policy to some extent. In addition, 64% of the public believe that the economic situation is expected to worsen in 2026, and only about 23% estimate that there will be an improvement.

These data are also supported by a separate survey by the Bulgu Research Institute from December, which indicates the depth of the cost of living crisis: about 78% of the respondents reported financial difficulty, with almost 44% stating that their income barely covers their basic needs, and only about 7% defined their economic situation as comfortable.

The economy is also the main factor influencing voting patterns: 45% of the respondents cited the economic situation as the decisive factor in their political decision, before leadership, government performance or ideological issues. Accordingly, the economy was also ranked as the main national problem in the eyes of the public, ahead of the legal system, education and unemployment.

In conclusion, the survey presents a picture of relative political stability in Turkey, but one that rests on shaky economic ground. While the ruling party continues to lead in the polls, public distrust in the management of the economy and pessimism about the economic future continue to cloud its position – and place a question mark on the continuation of the advantage in the long term.