President Donald Trump’s approval rating remains underwater as Americans continue to express concerns about the economy and his handling of the conflict with Iran. While Republicans largely stand behind the president, independents and Democrats remain skeptical, creating one of the sharpest partisan divides seen in recent years.
New surveys from the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and Gallup suggest that foreign policy, inflation, and cost-of-living concerns are shaping public opinion more than ever.
Trump’s Approval Rating Holds Steady
According to the latest AP-NORC poll, Trump’s overall approval rating remains in the high 30s, showing little movement despite recent developments surrounding a tentative agreement with Iran. The survey found that many Americans still disapprove of his handling of major issues, particularly the economy and Middle East policy.
While supporters argue that Trump has demonstrated strength abroad, critics say prolonged tensions and rising prices continue to hurt everyday Americans.
Most Americans Disapprove of Trump’s Handling of Iran
Foreign policy has emerged as one of the defining issues of Trump’s second term.
The AP-NORC survey found that about two-thirds of Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of Iran. However, views remain deeply partisan. Most Republicans support the president’s approach, whereas Democrats and independents overwhelmingly oppose it.
The divide highlights how national security issues are increasingly viewed through political lenses.
Recent diplomatic efforts and a tentative agreement with Tehran have done little to significantly change public opinion.
Economic Concerns Continue to Weigh on Trump
Even though inflation pressures have eased compared with earlier months, economic dissatisfaction remains widespread.
Americans continue to cite:
- Cost of living
- Gas prices
- Grocery prices
- Housing affordability
- Interest rates
Trump’s approval rating on economic issues has fallen compared with earlier periods, according to AP-NORC polling. Only about one-third of Americans currently approve of his handling of the economy.
Several polls have also shown declining support among some traditionally Republican voters who are frustrated by higher costs and uncertainty.
How Public Support for the Iran Conflict Compares Historically
Historical context from Gallup shows that Americans have generally rallied behind presidents during the early stages of major military conflicts. However, support often declines as wars become prolonged or their objectives become less clear.
The current conflict with Iran appears to follow a similar pattern.
Unlike short military operations that received broad bipartisan backing, public opinion on the Iran situation remains divided from the outset.
Republicans Remain Loyal, Independents Are More Skeptical
One of the biggest themes emerging from recent polling is the enormous partisan gap.
Republicans continue to approve of Trump’s handling of:
- Immigration
- Iran
- Israel
- Foreign policy
Meanwhile, independents and Democrats express much higher levels of dissatisfaction.
Political analysts say this polarization makes it harder for any president to enjoy broad national approval.
Why Trump’s Poll Numbers Matter
Approval ratings influence far more than headlines.
They can affect:
- Congressional elections.
- Public confidence.
- Legislative priorities.
- International perceptions of U.S. leadership.
- Momentum heading into future campaigns.
Although presidential approval ratings fluctuate, persistent weakness on economic issues often poses challenges for incumbents.
Could Trump’s Numbers Improve?
Several factors could change public sentiment in the coming months:
Economic Improvement
Lower inflation and falling energy prices could boost confidence.
Middle East Stability
A lasting agreement with Iran may ease concerns about military escalation.
Domestic Policy Successes
Progress on immigration, trade, or employment could improve approval ratings.
Unexpected Crises
Geopolitical or economic shocks can quickly reshape public opinion.
The Bottom Line
Donald Trump’s approval rating remains relatively stable, but Americans continue to express concerns about the economy and his handling of Iran. Support remains strong among Republicans, while independents and Democrats remain largely unconvinced.
As inflation, foreign policy, and cost-of-living issues continue to dominate the national conversation, Trump’s political fortunes may depend less on partisan loyalty and more on whether Americans feel their daily lives are improving.
Read also: Ethan Slater and Ariana Grande Split After Nearly 3 Years Together: What Happened?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Donald Trump’s approval rating in 2026?
Recent polls place Trump’s overall approval rating in the high 30% range, although numbers vary among pollsters.
Why are Trump’s poll numbers low?
Economic concerns, inflation, and dissatisfaction with his handling of Iran have contributed to weaker approval ratings.
How do Americans view Trump’s handling of Iran?
Most Americans disapprove, although Republicans generally support his approach while Democrats and independents oppose it.
Has support for wars historically affected presidential approval ratings?
Yes. Gallup data show that support often starts high during conflicts but can decline over time as wars continue.
Sources
- Associated Press / AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research
- Gallup
- NPR’s Up First
- Reuters/Ipsos polling
