Trump's Approval Rating Falls to 26% as Democrats Pull Ahead

President Donald Trump's approval ratings have been under pressure for months, but the situation intensified after the start of the Iran war in February 2026. The conflict led to noticeable spikes in gasoline and diesel prices, which quickly became a major point of frustration for American families.

As the cost of living climbed, concerns about inflation and economic hardship spread across party lines. Early on, Trump retained broad Republican support, but the persistence of high prices and the ongoing war began to erode confidence, even among his usual base.

By September 21, 2026, several major polls reported Trump's approval rating had plummeted to 32 percent, the lowest figure of his presidency. This marked the first time his rating fell below 30 percent in some polls, according to The Daily Beast.

Reports from CNN Brasil and South China Morning Post highlighted that the decline was most pronounced among Republicans, many of whom cited dissatisfaction with the handling of the economy and the unpopular Iran war. According to Al Jazeera, Republican support dropped from 82 percent to 73 percent in recent months.

The Reuters/Ipsos poll, widely cited by outlets like The Hill, confirmed the 32 percent approval figure and noted that over 70 percent of Americans now believe the economy is getting worse. DIE WELT pointed out that Trump's ratings have now fallen below the lowest point ever recorded by his predecessor Joe Biden.

With the midterm elections only about six weeks away, the president's standing has become a central issue for both parties.

President Trump is now facing the lowest approval ratings of his political career, with widespread voter dissatisfaction over inflation and the Iran war. Support from within his own party continues to erode, and economic anxiety remains at the forefront of public concern.

The administration is under mounting pressure to address these issues as the midterm elections approach. Uncertainty remains high about whether Trump can recover public trust in time to influence the outcome.

Attention will now turn to how Trump and his party respond to the economic and political backlash in the weeks leading up to the midterms. The effectiveness of any new policy proposals or campaign strategies could be crucial in shaping voter sentiment before Election Day.