Latest Survey: Trump's Approval Rating Falls into Negative Territory as Gas Prices Surge
After 493 days in office, Donald Trump’s popularity has reached its lowest point since YouGov and The Economist began polling in 2009. Latest data shows Trump’s net approval rating stands at -24, a drop of 1.9 points from the previous week. This means 34% of Americans approve of his performance, while 58% disapprove and 6% remain undecided.
The conflict with Iran is cited as a key factor worsening Trump’s public image, with foreign policy satisfaction at -20. However, the biggest pressure comes from the economy.
Three-quarters of Americans rate the current economic situation as poor or very poor, with 63% believing the economy is worsening. This poses a serious threat to the Republican Party ahead of the November mid-term elections.
Gas Prices Draw Criticism
Trump’s handling of inflation and prices is his administration’s weakest point, with public satisfaction at -43 — the lowest of his term.
Rising gasoline prices have become a major public concern. Before the Iran conflict erupted, average US gasoline prices were below $3 per gallon. They have since surged to $4.48 per gallon, or approximately Rp79,600 (at $1 = Rp17,780).
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently stated that aid was on the way. However, inconsistent government statements regarding the Iran conflict have left many Americans sceptical.
Republican Base Remains Loyal
Despite declining popularity, Trump retains significant influence within the Republican Party.
Trump’s backing propelled controversial Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to a decisive victory in the Republican primary for a Senate seat.
Conversely, several Republicans who opposed Trump were defeated, including Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy and Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie.
This phenomenon highlights loyalty to Trump as crucial for internal party elections. However, analysts warn that close association with Trump could become a liability in general elections amid rising public discontent.
YouGov data also maps Trump’s support across voter demographics.
White and male voters are Trump’s strongest supporters, while younger voters and ethnic minorities show the highest rejection rates.
Highly educated voters, including university and postgraduate graduates, also exhibit the lowest levels of support for Trump.
Interestingly, elderly voters — traditionally a Republican stronghold — are showing relatively cool attitudes toward the US president.
Key Issues for American Voters
The survey also reveals differing issue priorities between Republican and Democratic voters.
For Republicans, immigration, taxes, and government spending are top concerns, while Democrats prioritise healthcare and climate change.
Since 2017, the dominant issues in American public opinion have shifted in response to global and domestic developments.
The Covid-19 pandemic made healthcare the top concern during Joe Biden’s presidency. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, inflation became the most critical economic issue in American politics.
Now, high inflation, geopolitical conflicts, and economic uncertainty present a major test for Donald Trump’s administration ahead of the 2026 mid-term elections.