What's Happening?
President Donald Trump's net approval rating has reached its lowest point during his second term, according to a recent poll conducted by The Economist and YouGov. The poll, which surveyed 1,623 individuals
between October 24 and October 27, shows Trump's approval rating at 39 percent, with a disapproval rating of 58 percent, resulting in a net approval of -19 points. This marks the lowest net approval rating Trump has received in any Economist/YouGov poll during his second term, and is lower than all but one poll from his first term. The poll has a margin of error of 3.4 percent. The findings come as the U.S. faces ongoing economic uncertainty, a prolonged government shutdown, and criticism over major administration policies.
Why It's Important?
The declining approval ratings for President Trump could have significant implications for the political landscape, particularly with the 2026 midterm elections on the horizon. A low approval rating may weaken Trump's influence within the Republican Party and could impact the party's performance in upcoming elections. The dissatisfaction with Trump's performance, as indicated by the poll, suggests potential challenges for Republicans in maintaining control of the House of Representatives and possibly the Senate. The approval ratings have not been bolstered by recent foreign policy successes, such as the ceasefire in Gaza, indicating that domestic issues may be weighing more heavily on public opinion.
What's Next?
The trajectory of President Trump's approval ratings will likely be influenced by the resolution of the government shutdown, economic indicators, and any major legislative or international developments in the coming months. These factors could further shape the political outlook as the 2026 midterm elections approach, potentially affecting the Republican Party's strategy and electoral prospects.
