President Trump’s Approval Rating on the Economy Falls to 31%, His Lowest Ever — AP/NORC Poll

President Donald Trump’s public standing on economic leadership has hit a historic low, according to a new Associated Press–NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll that finds just 31 % of U.S. adults approve of how he’s handling the economy — the weakest performance of his presidency on this issue to date. 

The sharp decline marks a nine-point drop from March and signals growing voter dissatisfaction with Trump’s economic stewardship as the nation confronts rising costs for everyday goods, strained household budgets and broader concerns about affordability. 

Deepening Discontent Over Economic Performance

The poll’s findings reflect an intensifying divide between public expectations and economic realities. Despite Trump’s repeated assertions that U.S. economic fundamentals remain strong, most Americans view their personal financial situation and the national economy with skepticism. Voter sentiment toward economic conditions has become a defining issue, especially as inflation and price pressures linger. 

Experts note that economic approval ratings have long been a bellwether for presidential political fortunes. A president seen as faltering on economic management often faces steeper challenges securing broader public confidence — particularly among independents and moderate voters. 

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Political Implications Ahead of 2026 Midterms

This downturn in economic approval could carry major ramifications for Trump and his party as the 2026 midterm elections approach. Traditionally, voters prioritize pocketbook issues such as job growth, prices and household financial security, and a perception that leadership is out of sync with economic realities can reverberate through electoral contests. 

While Trump continues to enjoy comparatively stronger approval on other areas such as border security, where about half of adults express support, his weakening economic ratings underscore emerging vulnerabilities in his core message. 

Why Approval Ratings Matter

Presidential approval ratings — particularly on economic issues — offer insight into public confidence in leadership during times of financial strain. A historic low of 31 % on the economy places Trump among a small group of modern presidents whose economic evaluations have struggled to win broad public endorsement. 

As the political landscape evolves, economists and strategists will be watching whether the Trump administration adjusts its messaging or policy priorities in response to mounting voter concerns — or if economic disaffection becomes a defining theme of American political discourse going into 2026.