Trump's approval rating plummets to second-term low: Poll

Decline in Approval Ratings Signals Challenges for Trump's Political Standing

President Donald Trump's net disapproval rating has reached its lowest point during his second term, according to a recent poll conducted by The Economist and YouGov. This decline underscores growing concerns about his political influence as the 2026 midterm elections approach. Trump, known for emphasizing positive approval ratings during public appearances, now faces a significant drop that could affect his ability to maintain support in an increasingly divided political climate.

When Trump returned to the White House in January, he initially enjoyed high approval figures. However, over time, economic uncertainty and criticism of his policies have led to a noticeable decline. Issues such as his handling of immigration and the passage of the "big, beautiful bill" have drawn scrutiny, contributing to this downward trend.

The poll highlights that Trump currently has a 40 percent approval rating and a 55 percent disapproval rating, resulting in a net disapproval of -15. This is the lowest figure he has recorded during his second term. The survey, which included 1,777 respondents between July 25 and July 28, carries a margin of error of 3.4 percent.

Key Policy Areas Under Scrutiny

Trump's approval ratings are also declining on several key policy issues. The poll shows a 11 percent drop in support for jobs and the economy, a 25 percent decrease regarding inflation and prices, and a 6 percent decline in views on immigration. These numbers reflect growing dissatisfaction among voters concerning the administration's performance on critical national issues.

Comparing recent polls, there has been a consistent pattern of low approval and high disapproval. In the previous poll from July 18 to July 21, Trump had a 41 percent approval rating with 55 percent disapproval. Similarly, a poll from July 11 to July 14 showed the same 41 percent approval and 55 percent disapproval.

Expert Perspectives on Approval Trends

Political science professors have weighed in on the implications of these trends. D. Stephen Voss, a professor at the University of Kentucky, noted that it is common for presidents to see their approval ratings drop during their first year in office. He explained that not all supporters will have the same expectations, and some may become disappointed as the president navigates complex policy areas.

Voss added that Trump's aggressive approach to policy issues has led to quicker alienation of voters compared to previous presidents. He pointed out that past leaders typically chose their battles more carefully, leading to a slower erosion of support.

Robert Y. Shapiro, a professor at Columbia University, highlighted the impact of perceived negative news on Trump's approval. He cited factors such as an alleged Epstein-related coverup, rising prices due to tariffs, and criticism of the "big beautiful bill." Shapiro also noted that while Trump's base remains strong, the broader electorate is becoming more critical of his policies.

Public Reaction and Media Commentary

Public reaction to Trump's policies has been mixed. Jessica Tarlov, a co-host on Fox News, pointed out that Trump's approval rating on inflation is at 36%, with many Americans frustrated over rising costs. Gallup reported that Trump's job approval rating has dipped to 37% six months into his second term, marking the lowest level since the start of his presidency.

Despite the overall decline, Trump has maintained strong support within the Republican Party and among MAGA supporters. He recently claimed that his poll numbers among Republicans have reached record highs, citing percentages ranging from 90% to 95% in various surveys. He emphasized that his policies, including strong border security, continue to resonate with his base.

Looking Ahead

As the 2026 midterms draw closer, ongoing polls will likely continue to track Trump's approval ratings and specific policy performances. Analysts suggest that the political landscape could shift significantly depending on how well the administration addresses key issues like inflation, immigration, and economic stability.

With the potential for increased scrutiny from Congress and the media, Trump's ability to maintain support will be crucial in determining his influence in the coming years. The next few months will be critical in shaping the narrative around his leadership and the direction of his policies.