These are opinions that do not reflect reality. In fact, 8 of the 10 states with the highest poverty rates are red states. If progressive policies caused poverty, we would expect most blue states to have higher poverty rates.
As of the most recent data from 2025, the
top 10 U.S. states with the highest poverty rates are:
- Louisiana– 19.6%
- Mississippi– 19.4%
- New Mexico– 18.4%
- West Virginia– 16.8%
- Kentucky– 16.5%
- District of Columbia– 16.5%
- Arkansas– 16.3%
- Alabama– 16.1%
- Oklahoma– 15.6%
- South Carolina– 14.6%
These rankings are based on the percentage of the population living below the poverty line, as defined by the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey. The poverty threshold varies depending on household size and composition, but generally reflects the minimum income needed to meet basic living needs.
Discover population, economy, health, and more with the most comprehensive global statistics at your fingertips.
worldpopulationreview.com
The issue today is that we often create arguments just to blame the other side. I'm neither a Republican nor a Democrat; I simply want an honest, fact-based discussion about our country and politics. You seem more interested in sharing opinions than in presenting facts.