US President Donald Trump’s approval rating has fallen to the lowest level in his second term as Americans express growing dissatisfaction with the economy, inflation and the escalating Iran conflict, according to a new ABC News/Washington Post/Ipsos poll.
The poll found Trump’s approval rating at 37%, while 62% disapprove of his performance — the highest disapproval rating recorded during either of his terms as president.
Rating the economy and inflation deep underwater
Trump received some of his weakest ratings on economic issues.
Some 76% of Americans disapprove of his handling of the cost of living, while 72% disapprove of his handling of inflation — a significant increase from the February poll.
Nearly two-thirds, or 65%, disapprove of Trump’s handling of the economy overall, matching the worst economic rating recorded for former President Joe Biden in earlier ABC/Post polling.
The Iran conflict increases political pressure
The poll also showed broad public dissatisfaction with Trump’s handling of the Iran conflict and US foreign relations.
About 66% disapprove of Trump’s handling of the Iran situation, while 65% disapprove of his handling of relations with US allies.
Most Americans also believe that the use of United States military force against Iran was a mistake.
Independent voters are moving away from Trump
Trump’s support among independent voters has weakened significantly.
Only 25% of independents approve of his performance — the lowest level Trump has seen among independents during either term.
While Trump continues to maintain strong support among Republican voters overall, enthusiasm appears to be softening within a section of the party.
About 85% of Republicans approve of Trump overall, but the number of those who “strongly approve” fell from 53% last year to 45%.
Immigration remains Trump’s strongest issue
Immigration continues to be Trump’s top-performing issue, though even here his approval ratings remain negative overall.
Roughly 45% approve of Trump’s handling of the US-Mexico border, while 54% disapprove.
Republicans still maintain an edge over Democrats on immigration and crime.
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Democrats have a slight lead in the midterms
The poll found Democrats with a slight lead ahead of the midterm elections.
Among registered voters, 49% said they would support the Democratic nominee if congressional elections were held today, compared to 44% for Republicans.
But the poll also showed challenges for Democrats, with 53% of Americans saying the Democratic Party is “too liberal,” slightly more than the 49% who see Republicans as “too conservative.”
The public doubts Trump’s leadership and credibility
The findings also reflected broader concerns about Trump personally.
About seven in 10 Americans say Trump is not honest or trustworthy, while two-thirds say he does not carefully consider important decisions.
About 60% said he lacked the mental acuity needed to serve as president, and 55% questioned whether he was physically fit enough for the role.
More than half also said Trump is not a strong leader, according to the poll.
Americans are pessimistic about the country’s direction
Two-thirds of Americans say the United States is headed in the wrong direction, including overwhelming majorities of Democrats and independents.
The survey was reportedly conducted among 2,560 US adults and has a margin of error of plus or minus two percentage points.
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