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Republican Party Realignment: Poll Shows Carlson, Rogan, Kirk More Popular Than Politicians

  //media-entertainment.news-articles.net/content/ .. on-rogan-kirk-more-popular-than-politicians.html
  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 18:41 GMT by breitbart.com
      Locales: Not specified, nationwide poll, Florida, UNITED STATES

By Elias Vance

February 17, 2026

WASHINGTON - A groundbreaking new poll conducted by Breitbart News and Pulse Polls reveals a significant and potentially transformative shift in the Republican party. The data, released today, indicates that figures like Tucker Carlson, Joe Rogan, and Charlie Kirk command a far greater level of trust and favorability among Republican voters than many of the party's established political leaders. This isn't simply a matter of personality preference; it suggests a fundamental realignment in where Republicans are seeking information, leadership, and a sense of representation.

The exclusive poll, surveying 1,200 likely Republican voters between February 14th and 16th with a margin of error of +/- 2.8 percentage points, places Tucker Carlson at the top with a remarkable 78% favorability. Joe Rogan follows closely with 72%, and Charlie Kirk garners 68%. Importantly, other media personalities like Candace Owens (64%) and Dan Bongino (61%) also outperform a considerable number of current Republican politicians.

This trend stands in stark contrast to the declining approval ratings of traditionally powerful Republican figures. While still maintaining a solid base of support, former President Donald Trump's favorability has dipped to 65%, a notable decrease from the 82% recorded during the 2024 election cycle. Even more concerning for the party's establishment are the numbers for current congressional leaders: Senate Minority Leader John Barrasso languishes at a mere 34% favorability, and House Speaker Kevin Hern fares little better at 41%.

"We're witnessing the fragmentation of traditional authority within the Republican party," explains Steve McMahan, director of Pulse Polls. "For decades, voters looked to elected officials, party committees, and established conservative institutions for guidance. Now, they're increasingly turning to individuals who operate outside of those structures - individuals they perceive as more authentic, more willing to speak uncomfortable truths, and more representative of their everyday concerns."

This shift isn't happening in a vacuum. The rise of these 'new influencers' coincides with a growing distrust of mainstream media and political institutions. Carlson, Rogan, and Kirk, despite their own biases, have cultivated a following by presenting alternative perspectives and challenging conventional narratives. Rogan's long-form interview format, in particular, allows for nuanced discussions and a perceived lack of editorial control. Carlson, before and after his departure from Fox News, tapped into a vein of cultural anxieties and criticisms of the establishment that resonated deeply with a segment of the electorate. Kirk, through Turning Point USA, has successfully mobilized young conservatives and positioned himself as a key voice for a new generation.

The decline in favorability for established politicians raises critical questions about the future of the Republican party. Is this a temporary dip, or does it signal a more permanent disconnect between the leadership and the base? Some analysts suggest that the party's failure to adequately address concerns about economic inequality, cultural change, and the perceived excesses of 'woke' culture has created an opening for these alternative voices. Others argue that the increasing polarization of American politics has simply amplified existing divisions, pushing voters further to the extremes and making compromise more difficult.

Beyond the numbers, the poll highlights a broader trend in American politics: the increasing importance of personal branding and direct engagement with voters. These media personalities have mastered the art of building devoted followings through social media, podcasts, and online video platforms. They bypass traditional gatekeepers and communicate directly with their audience, fostering a sense of intimacy and authenticity. This direct connection allows them to shape the narrative and mobilize support in ways that traditional politicians struggle to replicate.

The implications of this shift are far-reaching. The Republican party may need to adapt its strategies for communication and outreach, recognizing that voters are no longer solely reliant on traditional channels. Furthermore, the rise of these 'new influencers' could reshape the party's platform and priorities, potentially leading to a more populist and unconventional agenda. The 2028 presidential race will be a crucial test of whether this realignment is a fleeting phenomenon or a lasting transformation of the Republican landscape. The poll data strongly suggests that these voices will be a force to be reckoned with, and that the future of the GOP may well be shaped by those who command attention outside the halls of power.