Senators represent the interests of the residents of their home state on Capitol Hill by crafting and voting on new laws and by approving or rejecting cabinet and judicial nominations made by the president. Though not listed among their official duties, remaining popular is also an important part of their job.
Unlike U.S. presidents and most state governors, senators do not have term limits. As a result, they can keep their job as long as they remain popular and in good health. Throughout history, dozens of senators have served for multiple decades. Nine senators, including one sitting senator, Patrick Leahy of Vermont, have served for over 40 years.
24/7 Wall St. reviewed public opinion data from research company Morning Consult to rank all 100 U.S. senators from most to least popular. Senator approval ratings are based on survey data collected during the third quarter of 2019 and range from 33% to 65%.
Each state has two senators — and even though both are representing the interests of the same people, perceptions of how effective they are can vary considerably. For example, the two senators from Vermont — independent Bernie Sanders and Democrat Patrick Leahy — have the two highest approval ratings in the country, at 65% and 63%, respectively. In contrast, Angus King, an independent from Maine, is one of the most popular senators with a 57% approval rating. Meanwhile, Maine’s other senator, Republican Susan Collins, is one of the least popular, with an approval rating of just 43%.
One factor that seems to be largely affecting senators’ approval rating is economic conditions — even though the state of the economy is often out of the control of elected officials. Of the 20 Senators with approval ratings of at least 50%, 16 are from states where the annual unemployment rate is below the 3.9% national average. Meanwhile, only six of the 20 least popular senators are from states with lower than average unemployment. These are the states where it is hardest to find full-time work.
Aside from economic reasons, dissatisfaction with a senator can have any number of other causes — including a personal scandal or public gaffe. But a major scandal or loss of public approval doesn’t necessarily mean a senator will lose their job. In areas where large swaths of eligible voters do not turn out on election day, controversial and even unpopular leaders can still win elections. In 24 states, voter participation rates were below 50% in the November 2018 midterm elections. Here is a list of the 50 states ranked by voter turnout.
Click here to see America’s most and least popular senators
Click here to read our methodology
Source: Win McNamee / Getty Images
1. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I) of Vermont
> Popularity: 65% approve; 30% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2007
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in VT: 54.2% (10th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.7% (5th lowest)
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Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
2. Sen. Patrick Leahy (D) of Vermont
> Popularity: 63% approve; 24% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/1975
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in VT: 54.2% (10th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.7% (5th lowest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
3. Sen. John Barrasso (R) of Wyoming
> Popularity: 59% approve; 26% disapprove
> Assumed office: 6/25/2007
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in WY: 51.2% (22nd highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.1% (15th highest)
Source: Zach Gibson / Getty Images
4. Sen. Angus King (I) of Maine
> Popularity: 57% approve; 30% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2013
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in ME: 64.5% (the highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.4% (20th lowest)
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Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
5. Sen. John Hoeven (R) of North Dakota
> Popularity: 56% approve; 22% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2011
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in ND: 59.8% (4th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.6% (4th lowest)
Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
6. Sen. Mike Enzi (R) of Wyoming
> Popularity: 56% approve; 23% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/1997
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in WY: 51.2% (22nd highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.1% (15th highest)
Source: Stephen Maturen / Getty Images
7. Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D) of Minnesota
> Popularity: 55% approve; 32% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2007
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MN: 59.5% (5th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.9% (8th lowest)
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8. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D) of New Hampshire
> Popularity: 54% approve; 34% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2009
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NH: 53.3% (16th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.5% (3rd lowest)
Source: Public Domain / Wikimedia Commons
9. Sen. John Thune (R) of South Dakota
> Popularity: 54% approve; 34% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2005
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in SD: 51.0% (24th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3% (11th lowest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
10. Sen. Chris Coons (D) of Delaware
> Popularity: 52% approve; 27% disapprove
> Assumed office: 11/15/2010
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in DE: 48.8% (22nd lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.8% (25th lowest)
Source: Bill Pugliano / Getty Images
11. Sen. Mitt Romney (R) of Utah
> Popularity: 52% approve; 33% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2019
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in UT: 54.0% (11th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.1% (12th lowest)
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Source: Aaron P. Bernstein / Getty Images
12. Sen. Mike Rounds (R) of South Dakota
> Popularity: 52% approve; 34% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in SD: 51.0% (24th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3% (11th lowest)
Source: Zach Gibson / Getty Images
13. Sen. Ed Markey (D) of Massachusetts
> Popularity: 51% approve; 25% disapprove
> Assumed office: 7/16/2013
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MA: 50.0% (25th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.3% (15th lowest)
Source: Photo by Drew Angerer / Getty Images
14. Sen. Brian E. Schatz (D) of Hawaii
> Popularity: 51% approve; 28% disapprove
> Assumed office: 12/27/2012
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in HI: 40.4% (the lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.4% (the lowest)
Source: Tasos Katopodis / Getty Images
15. Sen. Maggie Hassan (D) of New Hampshire
> Popularity: 51% approve; 33% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2017
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NH: 53.3% (16th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.5% (3rd lowest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
16. Sen. Tim Scott (R) of South Carolina
> Popularity: 50% approve; 25% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2013
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in SC: 46.9% (10th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.4% (20th lowest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
17. Sen. Jack Reed (D) of Rhode Island
> Popularity: 50% approve; 27% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/1997
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in RI: 48.7% (20th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.1% (15th highest)
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Source: Mark Wilson / Getty Images
18. Sen. Tom Carper (D) of Delaware
> Popularity: 50% approve; 28% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2001
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in DE: 48.8% (22nd lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.8% (25th lowest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
19. Sen. Ben Sasse (R) of Nebraska
> Popularity: 50% approve; 32% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NE: 47.3% (14th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.8% (7th lowest)
Source: usfwsnortheast / Flickr
20. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D) of Rhode Island
> Popularity: 50% approve; 32% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2007
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in RI: 48.7% (20th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.1% (15th highest)
Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
21. Sen. Ben Cardin (D) of Maryland
> Popularity: 49% approve; 23% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2007
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MD: 49.7% (24th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.9% (21st highest)
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22. Sen. John Boozman (R) of Arkansas
> Popularity: 49% approve; 27% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2011
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in AR: 40.6% (2nd lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.7% (24th lowest)
Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
23. Sen. David Perdue (R) of Georgia
> Popularity: 49% approve; 27% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in GA: 52.0% (19th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.9% (21st highest)
Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
24. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D) of Washington
> Popularity: 49% approve; 27% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2001
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in WA: 56.0% (9th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.5% (9th highest)
Source: Pete Marovich / Getty Images
25. Sen. Mark Warner (D) of Virginia
> Popularity: 49% approve; 30% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2009
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in VA: 52.0% (19th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3% (11th lowest)
Source: Win McNamee / Getty Images
26. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R) of South Carolina
> Popularity: 49% approve; 35% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2003
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in SC: 46.9% (10th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.4% (20th lowest)
Source: Scott Olson / Getty Images
27. Sen. Ted Cruz (R) of Texas
> Popularity: 49% approve; 36% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2013
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in TX: 42.2% (3rd lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.9% (21st highest)
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28. Sen. Jon Tester (D) of Montana
> Popularity: 49% approve; 39% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2007
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MT: 63.0% (2nd highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.7% (24th lowest)
Source: Joe Raedle / Getty Images
29. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D) of Massachusetts
> Popularity: 49% approve; 41% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2013
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MA: 50.0% (25th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.3% (15th lowest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
30. Sen. Ron Wyden (D) of Oregon
> Popularity: 48% approve; 27% disapprove
> Assumed office: 2/5/1996
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in OR: 58.2% (6th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.2% (13th highest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
31. Sen. Patty Murray (D) of Washington
> Popularity: 48% approve; 29% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/1993
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in WA: 56.0% (9th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.5% (9th highest)
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32. Sen. Mike Crapo (R) of Idaho
> Popularity: 48% approve; 30% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/1999
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in ID: 45.2% (8th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.8% (7th lowest)
Source: Drew Angerer / Getty Images
33. Sen. Kevin Cramer (R) of North Dakota
> Popularity: 48% approve; 30% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2019
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in ND: 59.8% (4th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.6% (4th lowest)
Source: Pete Marovich / Getty Images
34. Sen. Tom Cotton (R) of Arkansas
> Popularity: 48% approve; 32% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in AR: 40.6% (2nd lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.7% (24th lowest)
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Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
35. Sen. Christopher Murphy (D) of Connecticut
> Popularity: 48% approve; 35% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2013
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in CT: 48.3% (18th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.1% (15th highest)
Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
36. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D) of New York
> Popularity: 48% approve; 35% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/1999
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NY: 43.8% (7th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.1% (15th highest)
Source: Drew Angerer / Getty Images
37. Sen. Joe Manchin III (D) of West Virginia
> Popularity: 48% approve; 42% disapprove
> Assumed office: 11/15/2010
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in WV: 43.4% (5th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 5.3% (2nd highest)
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38. Sen. Roger Wicker (R) of Mississippi
> Popularity: 47% approve; 28% disapprove
> Assumed office: 12/31/2007
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MS: 53.8% (12th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.8% (5th highest)
Source: Christian Petersen / Getty Images
39. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D) of Arizona
> Popularity: 47% approve; 29% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2019
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in AZ: 52.2% (17th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.8% (5th highest)
Source: Win McNamee / Getty Images
40. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D) of Ohio
> Popularity: 47% approve; 30% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2007
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in OH: 51.1% (23rd highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.6% (7th highest)
Source: U.S. Congress / Public Domain / Wikimedia Commons
41. Sen. Steve Daines (R) of Montana
> Popularity: 47% approve; 31% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MT: 63.0% (2nd highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.7% (24th lowest)
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Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
42. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R) of West Virginia
> Popularity: 47% approve; 33% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in WV: 43.4% (5th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 5.3% (2nd highest)
Source: Bryan Thomas / Getty Images
43. Sen. Marco Rubio (R) of Florida
> Popularity: 47% approve; 34% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2011
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in FL: 47.0% (11th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.6% (22nd lowest)
Source: Joe Raedle / Getty Images
44. Sen. Rick Scott (R) of Florida
> Popularity: 47% approve; 36% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2019
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in FL: 47.0% (11th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.6% (22nd lowest)
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Source: Astrid Riecken / Getty Images
45. Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D) of Wisconsin
> Popularity: 47% approve; 37% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2013
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in WI: 62.6% (3rd highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3% (11th lowest)
Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
46. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D) of Connecticut
> Popularity: 47% approve; 38% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2011
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in CT: 48.3% (18th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.1% (15th highest)
Source: Astrid Riecken / Getty Images
47. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D) of Maryland
> Popularity: 46% approve; 22% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2017
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MD: 49.7% (24th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.9% (21st highest)
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48. Sen. John Neely Kennedy (R) of Louisiana
> Popularity: 46% approve; 26% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2017
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in LA: 47.9% (16th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.9% (3rd highest)
Source: Win McNamee / Getty Images
49. Sen. James Lankford (R) of Oklahoma
> Popularity: 46% approve; 27% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in OK: 47.1% (12th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.4% (20th lowest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
50. Sen. Jim Risch (R) of Idaho
> Popularity: 46% approve; 28% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2009
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in ID: 45.2% (8th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.8% (7th lowest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
51. Sen. Jim Inhofe (R) of Oklahoma
> Popularity: 46% approve; 29% disapprove
> Assumed office: 11/17/1994
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in OK: 47.1% (12th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.4% (20th lowest)
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52. Sen. Mike Lee (R) of Utah
> Popularity: 46% approve; 31% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2011
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in UT: 54.0% (11th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.1% (12th lowest)
Source: Drew Angerer / Getty Images
53. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith (R) of Mississippi
> Popularity: 46% approve; 32% disapprove
> Assumed office: 4/9/2018
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MS: 53.8% (12th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.8% (5th highest)
Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
54. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R) of Tennessee
> Popularity: 46% approve; 32% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2019
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in TN: 47.8% (15th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.5% (21st lowest)
Source: Win McNamee / Getty Images
55. Sen. Tim Kaine (D) of Virginia
> Popularity: 46% approve; 34% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2013
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in VA: 52.0% (19th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3% (11th lowest)
Source: Drew Angerer / Getty Images
56. Sen. Mazie K. Hirono (D) of Hawaii
> Popularity: 46% approve; 36% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2013
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in HI: 40.4% (the lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.4% (the lowest)
Source: Zach Gibson / Getty Images
57. Sen. Cory Booker (D) of New Jersey
> Popularity: 46% approve; 36% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 10/31/2013
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NJ: 48.3% (18th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.1% (15th highest)
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Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
58. Sen. Bill Cassidy (R) of Louisiana
> Popularity: 45% approve; 27% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in LA: 47.9% (16th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.9% (3rd highest)
Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
59. Sen. Richard Shelby (R) of Alabama
> Popularity: 45% approve; 30% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/1987
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in AL: 48.8% (22nd lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.9% (21st highest)
60. Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D) of Michigan
> Popularity: 45% approve; 34% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2001
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MI: 57.7% (7th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.1% (15th highest)
Source: Drew Angerer / Getty Images
61. Sen. Johnny Isakson (R) of Georgia
> Popularity: 44% approve; 26% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2005
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in GA: 52.0% (19th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.9% (21st highest)
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Source: Mark Wilson / Getty Images
62. Sen. John Cornyn (R) of Texas
> Popularity: 44% approve; 26% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 12/2/2002
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in TX: 42.2% (3rd lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.9% (21st highest)
Source: Aaron P. Bernstein / Getty Images
63. Sen. Mike Braun (R) of Indiana
> Popularity: 44% approve; 27% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2019
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in IN: 47.2% (13th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.4% (20th lowest)
Source: Lukas Schulze / Getty Images
64. Sen. Jeff Merkley (D) of Oregon
> Popularity: 44% approve; 28% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2009
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in OR: 58.2% (6th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.2% (13th highest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
65. Sen. Josh Hawley (R) of Missouri
> Popularity: 43% approve; 31% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2019
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MO: 53.7% (14th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.2% (13th lowest)
Source: Kena Betancur / Getty Images
66. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D) of New York
> Popularity: 43% approve; 31% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/27/2009
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NY: 43.8% (7th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.1% (15th highest)
Source: Mark Makela / Getty Images
67. Sen. Bob Casey Jr. (D) of Pennsylvania
> Popularity: 43% approve; 31% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2007
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in PA: 52.1% (18th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.3% (10th highest)
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Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
68. Sen. Lamar Alexander (R) of Tennessee
> Popularity: 43% approve; 31% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2003
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in TN: 47.8% (15th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.5% (21st lowest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
69. Sen. Martin Heinrich (D) of New Mexico
> Popularity: 43% approve; 34% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2013
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NM: 45.3% (9th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.9% (3rd highest)
Source: Gabriella Demczuk / Getty Images
70. Sen. Tom Udall (D) of New Mexico
> Popularity: 43% approve; 34% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2009
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NM: 45.3% (9th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.9% (3rd highest)
Source: Al Drago / Getty Images
71. Sen. Kamala Harris (D) of California
> Popularity: 43% approve; 35% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2017
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in CA: 43.8% (7th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.2% (13th highest)
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72. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D) of California
> Popularity: 43% approve; 38% disapprove
> Assumed office: 11/10/1992
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in CA: 43.8% (7th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.2% (13th highest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
73. Sen. Deb Fischer (R) of Nebraska
> Popularity: 43% approve; 40% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2013
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NE: 47.3% (14th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.8% (7th lowest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
74. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R) of Iowa
> Popularity: 43% approve; 41% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/1981
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in IA: 56.2% (8th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.5% (3rd lowest)
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Source: Win McNamee / Getty Images
75. Sen. Susan Collins (R) of Maine
> Popularity: 43% approve; 49% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/1997
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in ME: 64.5% (the highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.4% (20th lowest)
Source: Photo by Zach Gibson / Getty Images
76. Sen. Todd C. Young (R) of Indiana
> Popularity: 42% approve; 25% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2017
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in IN: 47.2% (13th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.4% (20th lowest)
Source: Mark Wilson / Getty Images
77. Sen. Jerry Moran (R) of Kansas
> Popularity: 42% approve; 29% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2011
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in KS: 53.6% (15th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.4% (20th lowest)
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Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
78. Sen. Tina Smith (D) of Minnesota
> Popularity: 42% approve; 29% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2018
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MN: 59.5% (5th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.9% (8th lowest)
Source: David Ryder / Getty Images
79. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R) of Alaska
> Popularity: 42% approve; 31% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in AK: 50.2% (25th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 6.6% (the highest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
80. Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D) of Illinois
> Popularity: 42% approve; 32% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2017
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in IL: 48.7% (20th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.3% (10th highest)
Source: Drew Angerer / Getty Images
81. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D) of Nevada
> Popularity: 41% approve; 30% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2017
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NV: 43.3% (4th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.6% (7th highest)
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82. Sen. Ronald Harold “Ron” Johnson (R) of Wisconsin
> Popularity: 41% approve; 32% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2011
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in WI: 62.6% (3rd highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3% (11th lowest)
Source: Justin Sullivan / Getty Images
83. Sen. Doug Jones (D) of Alabama
> Popularity: 41% approve; 36% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2018
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in AL: 48.8% (22nd lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.9% (21st highest)
Source: Win McNamee / Getty Images
84. Sen. Rob Portman (R) of Ohio
> Popularity: 40% approve; 32% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2011
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in OH: 51.1% (23rd highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.6% (7th highest)
Source: Zach Gibson / Getty Images
85. Sen. Michael Bennet (D) of Colorado
> Popularity: 40% approve; 33% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/22/2009
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in CO: 53.8% (12th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.3% (15th lowest)
Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
86. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R) of Alaska
> Popularity: 40% approve; 39% disapprove
> Assumed office: 12/20/2002
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in AK: 50.2% (25th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 6.6% (the highest)
Source: Brendan Hoffman / Getty Images
87. Sen. Rand Paul (R) of Kentucky
> Popularity: 40% approve; 40% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2011
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in KY: 51.8% (21st highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.3% (10th highest)
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Source: Pool / Getty Images
88. Sen. Jacky Rosen (D) of Nevada
> Popularity: 39% approve; 31% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2019
> Current term ends: 2025
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NV: 43.3% (4th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.6% (7th highest)
Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
89. Sen. Dick Durbin (D) of Illinois
> Popularity: 39% approve; 36% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/1997
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in IL: 48.7% (20th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.3% (10th highest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
90. Sen. Pat Toomey (R) of Pennsylvania
> Popularity: 39% approve; 36% disapprove (tied)
> Assumed office: 1/3/2011
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in PA: 52.1% (18th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.3% (10th highest)
Source: Justin Sullivan / Getty Images
91. Sen. Martha McSally (R) of Arizona
> Popularity: 39% approve; 37% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2019
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in AZ: 52.2% (17th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.8% (5th highest)
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92. Sen. Roy Blunt (R) of Missouri
> Popularity: 39% approve; 38% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2011
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MO: 53.7% (14th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.2% (13th lowest)
Source: Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images
93. Sen. Joni Ernst (R) of Iowa
> Popularity: 39% approve; 43% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in IA: 56.2% (8th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 2.5% (3rd lowest)
Source: Joe Raedle / Getty Images
94. Sen. Pat Roberts (R) of Kansas
> Popularity: 38% approve; 36% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/1997
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in KS: 53.6% (15th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.4% (20th lowest)
Source: Al Drago / Getty Images
95. Sen. Richard Burr (R) of North Carolina
> Popularity: 37% approve; 34% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2005
> Current term ends: 2023
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NC: 49.3% (23rd lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.9% (21st highest)
Source: Alex Wong / Getty Images
96. Sen. Mitch McConnell (R) of Kentucky
> Popularity: 37% approve; 50% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/1985
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in KY: 51.8% (21st highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.3% (10th highest)
97. Sen. Gary Peters (D) of Michigan
> Popularity: 36% approve; 28% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in MI: 57.7% (7th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.1% (15th highest)
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98. Sen. Cory Gardner (R) of Colorado
> Popularity: 36% approve; 39% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in CO: 53.8% (12th highest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.3% (15th lowest)
Source: Kena Betancur / Getty Images
99. Sen. Bob Menendez (D) of New Jersey
> Popularity: 34% approve; 43% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/18/2006
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NJ: 48.3% (18th lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 4.1% (15th highest)
Source: Pool / Getty Images
100. Sen. Thom Tillis (R) of North Carolina
> Popularity: 33% approve; 38% disapprove
> Assumed office: 1/3/2015
> Current term ends: 2021
> Nov. 2018 voter participation in NC: 49.3% (23rd lowest)
> 2018 state unemployment: 3.9% (21st highest)
Methodology
To identify America’s most (and least) popular senators, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed approval and disapproval ratings for all 100 U.S. senators from Morning Consult, a public opinion data research company. Senator approval ratings are current as of the third quarter of 2019. Senators were ranked based on approval ratings, and in the case of a tie, the senator with the lower disapproval rating was ranked higher.
We also considered voter turnout data for the November 2018 midterm elections as a proxy for civic engagement. Voter participation data came from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey.
To gauge economic conditions in a given state, we reviewed both the annual unemployment rate and the share of the state population living below the poverty line. The unemployment rate is for 2018 and came from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The poverty rate came from the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2018 American Community Survey.
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