Trump Approval Rating Hits Worst Level; Iran War and Oil Crisis Drive Economic Anxiety
Primary region US
Tags Economy · Policy · Security
Regions US · Middle East
President Trump's approval rating has hit the worst level of his two terms, with over 60% of Americans disapproving and two-thirds saying the country is headed in the wrong direction. Trump is most vulnerable on cost-of-living and economic issues, with US gasoline prices surpassing $4.50/gallon for the first time since 2022. The US-Israeli war against Iran, launched February 28, has triggered a global oil crisis and effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The Trump administration requested a 44% increase in defense spending — roughly $1.5 trillion for the FY2027 defense budget — split between $1.1 trillion base discretionary and $350 billion requiring reconciliation. The administration imposed a blockade on maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports on April 13 and continues 'Operation Economic Fury' — sanctions on Iran's oil smuggling, weapons procurement, shadow fleet, and shadow banking.
Strategic interpretation
The combination of sub-40% approval, surging gas prices, and an unresolved war creates the most vulnerable political position Trump has faced since taking office. The 44% defense spending increase request signals an attempt to reframe the narrative around national security and military strength, but it requires congressional approval at a time when fiscal hawks are wary of expanding the deficit. The Iran war's economic fallout — particularly its impact on working-class voters' pocketbooks — is the single greatest threat to Republican prospects in the November midterms.