Trump Approval Rating Hits Record Low of 37% as Iran War and Gas Prices Weigh on Public Opinion
Primary region US
Tags Elections · Economy · Security
Regions US · Middle East
President Trump's approval rating fell to 37% in the latest NPR/PBS News/Marist poll, the lowest of his second term and the worst score recorded for him in the Marist poll across both terms, with 59% disapproving. Only 33% approved of his handling of Iran, and 63% of respondents said gas prices are straining household budgets, with 63% blaming Trump for the increase given the war with Iran. Democrats hold a 61% to 53% enthusiasm edge over Republicans for the midterms. The poll underscores that Republicans face severe headwinds despite their redistricting gains.
Strategic interpretation
A president below 40% approval three months before midterms historically presages severe seat losses averaging 33 House seats. The Iran war has become a significant drag even within Trump's own party, with strong approval dropping from 53% to 45%. The strategic tension for Republicans is that redistricting may be the only thing standing between them and a House flip, making the Southern map redraws even more consequential.