President Donald Trump’s approval rating has reached a record low, according to multiple recent polls, reflecting growing dissatisfaction among key voter groups and on critical issues. A CNN/SSRS poll found Trump’s overall approval rating at 34%, matching his lowest point during his first term. His net approval rating—calculating approval minus disapproval—stands at minus 32 points, worse than his previous low in January 2021 following the Capitol riot.
Part 1: Immediate Action & Core Facts
1. Record Low Approval Among White Voters
A CNN poll found Trump’s net approval rating among white voters at minus 20, the lowest recorded during his presidency. White voters have historically been a core demographic for Trump, making this decline significant ahead of the 2026 midterms.
2. Widespread Dissatisfaction on Key Issues
A record-high 73% of Americans say Trump hasn’t prioritized the country’s most important problems, including the Iran war and economic conditions. Only 27% believe he has the right priorities. His approval on handling inflation and gas prices stands at 25% and 21%, respectively.
Part 2: Deeper Dive & Context
Economic and Foreign Policy Concerns
Trump’s handling of the Iran war and economic policies has drawn significant criticism. 62% of Americans say he is not an effective world leader, up from 54% earlier in his second term. Only 28% approve of his Iran strategy, and 62% believe the war has not been worth the cost in lives and dollars.
Republican Party Fractures
Support within his own party has also waned. His approval rating among Republicans has dropped to 78%, and only 19% of Republicans are enthusiastic about the rest of his second term, down from 38% last spring.
Comparisons to Past Presidents
Despite the low approval, Trump’s numbers are comparable to those of former President Joe Biden at a similar point in his term, according to Reuters/Ipsos surveys. However, Trump’s disapproval rating is higher.
White House Response
The White House has dismissed concerns about the polling, emphasizing Trump’s accomplishments. A spokesman stated, “No other President in history has accomplished more for the American people than President Trump, who is working tirelessly to create jobs, cool inflation, increase housing affordability, and more.”
Polling Consistency Across Sources
Multiple polls, including those from Big Data Poll, Fox News, American Research Group, Economist/YouGov, and Pew Research Center, have shown Trump’s approval ratings at or near record lows this year. These polls also highlight weak support on economic management, inflation, and the Iran war.
Long-Term Implications
Weak presidential approval can become a burden for the party in power before midterm elections, particularly when voters are focused on economic issues and foreign conflicts. The decline in Trump’s support among white voters and Republicans could signal broader challenges for the GOP in upcoming elections.