Survey Reveals Majority of Capitol Hill Aides Plan to Change Jobs Following 2026 Midterm Elections

WASHINGTON, Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- A recent survey of congressional staff members indicates that a majority of Capitol Hill aides are anticipating a career shift following the 2026 midterm elections. Published by HillFaith as part of its ongoing "Hill Staff Views" series, the findings utilize polling data from a CNCT Capitol Pulse survey to provide a detailed look into workforce dynamics across the legislative branch. According to the results, 53 percent of surveyed congressional aides replied in the affirmative when asked if they plan on moving to new jobs heading into the new Congress.

High Retention Within the Congressional Ecosystem

Despite the high rate of anticipated job movement, the data suggests that institutional experience will largely remain on Capitol Hill. Overall, 81 percent of respondents stated they expect to remain on Capitol Hill in the new year, even if in different roles. In contrast, 12 percent of aides indicated they will be heading off campus for fresh starts in non-congressional positions.

The survey highlights a fragmented landscape regarding staffers' immediate career plans across both chambers:

• 26 percent report planning to stay put in their current office, barring a room move by their member.
• 26 percent confirm they will return to Capitol Hill, but in an entirely new position.
• 31 percent state they are currently "playing it by ear," evaluating potential moves between chambers, the executive branch, or private sector communications firms.
• 12 percent indicate they will be leaving the congressional campus entirely for new opportunities.

Demographic Trends and Inter-Party Variations

The CNCT Capitol Pulse data reveals distinct demographic trends shaping these employment decisions across different age groups, genders, and political affiliations. Among staffers who are currently "playing it by ear," Democrats form the largest cohort at 44 percent, followed closely by Republican women at 43 percent. Meanwhile, career stability and retention are highest among senior personnel, with Senior Staffers making up the single largest group—48 percent—of those planning to remain in their current positions.

For aides planning to leave Capitol Hill entirely, Democratic staff members account for the largest proportion of off-campus departures. This segment includes 43 percent of Junior Policy Democrats, 38 percent of Democrats over the age of 30, and 18 percent of all Democratic respondents overall. The report notes these planned departures occur alongside historical precedents and current polling projections regarding party control in the upcoming House and Senate elections.

Looking Ahead to the New Congress

As the 2026 mid-term election cycle approaches, these findings offer a neutral, data-driven perspective on the professional intentions of the thousands of staffers who support daily legislative operations. The high volume of anticipated internal movement underscores the dynamic, highly transitional nature of Capitol Hill employment during national election years, as aides evaluate their career options both inside and outside of government service.

About HillFaith: HillFaith is a non-partisan fellowship and apologetics ministry dedicated to serving the more than 12,000 congressional aides working on Capitol Hill. Founded on the principle of providing a supportive community, HillFaith offers educational programs, mentoring, and weekly discipleship studies for staff members across all political parties and legislative chambers.

The organization seeks to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a logical, non-judgmental manner while fostering professional and spiritual growth. By offering a safe space amidst the high-pressure environment of Washington, D.C., HillFaith helps individuals navigate their careers with grace, providing relevant news, advocacy, fellowship, and a reliable foundation for those shaping America's laws. Visit www.hillfaith.org to learn more.

Mark Tapscott
[email protected]
301-275-6645

SOURCE HillFaith