A new AP-NORC poll finds just one-third of Democrats are optimistic about their party's future — down from six in 10 last July. Only 33% of Democrats say they're very or somewhat optimistic — a collapse driven by frustration that leaders aren't pushing back hard enough on Trump's agenda.

Meanwhile, Republicans' optimism is on the rise. Fifty-five percent of GOP voters feel good about their party's direction — up from 47% a year ago.

But neither party enjoys widespread love. Only 40% of Americans view the GOP favorably, and just one-third feel that way about Democrats.

Among Democrats, only 30% have a positive view of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, 21% back Chuck Schumer, and Bernie Sanders leads with 40% approval.

With gerrymandering and the Electoral College leaving 55% of Democrats doubting the system, the question is clear: Will the party find its next unifying leader in time, or will pessimism prevail?

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