As the 2026 midterm elections draw nearer, conversations about President Donald Trump’s approval rating have become an increasingly central focus for analysts, voters, and national media. After a period of relative stability during the early months of his second term, newly released polling shows a noticeable shift in public sentiment, with a growing number of Americans expressing dissatisfaction with his performance.
These recent figures, highlighted by several national surveys, have prompted strong reactions from Trump, who has openly criticized news organizations and polling firms for presenting what he describes as misleading portrayals of public opinion.
Across multiple surveys, signs of weakening approval have emerged. One notable example is the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll published in January 2026. According to its findings, only around four in ten adults approve of Trump’s job performance, while a majority now indicate disapproval. Respondents expressed concerns that the administration’s priorities are misplaced, with many citing dissatisfaction regarding economic management and immigration policy, two pillars of Trump’s agenda.
In the AP-NORC results, approval for Trump’s handling of the economy hovered around 37-38%, a figure that has remained difficult to elevate throughout his second term. Immigration approval has followed a similar path, dropping from earlier highs as broader debate has emerged about enforcement tactics and policy outcomes. Many surveyed Americans said they believe the administration’s focus frequently misses the issues they find most urgent.
These trends are reflected in polling averages as well. Aggregated national data, including those compiled by RealClearPolitics, consistently show Trump’s approval rating in the low-to-mid-40s, with disapproval often sitting in the mid-50s or above. Independent polling organizations also report that voters continue to express apprehension about inflation, household costs, and global affairs, which has shaped assessments of the president’s leadership.
In response to these developments, Trump has turned to his platform, Truth Social, to criticize what he calls false or manipulated polling. He has accused several major news outlets, including The New York Times, of releasing surveys that misrepresent his popularity. In repeated messages, he labeled some polling firms “fraudulent” and suggested that the publication of inaccurate numbers should be treated as a serious matter. Trump’s remarks align with broader criticism he has voiced over time toward media outlets he considers unfriendly.
Beyond his statements, Trump has previously pursued legal action against certain media organizations in unrelated cases, including expanded defamation lawsuits. Although courts often emphasize the high legal threshold required for public figures to prove defamation, these actions reflect his ongoing effort to challenge press narratives he sees as harmful.
The significance of approval ratings grows sharply in the months before midterm elections. Historically, presidents with sustained approval below 50% have faced challenging environments for their party’s congressional candidates. Low approval can dampen enthusiasm among supporters, mobilize opponents, and complicate messaging strategies for Republicans defending competitive seats.
Economic conditions play a substantial role in shaping public opinion. Even as some national indicators show growth or stability in certain sectors, many Americans continue to feel squeezed by rising living costs, including groceries, utilities, and housing. Recent research suggests that approximately seven in ten people view the economy as fair or poor, a perception that carries significant influence in presidential evaluations.
Immigration, once a reliable strong point for Trump among his base, has become more complex as national demonstrations and bipartisan critiques have emerged. Some of the latest polls reveal record-low approval for his handling of immigration, with only about four in ten Americans showing support. Foreign policy assessments have also been mixed, influenced by global conflicts, evolving alliances, and shifting international dynamics.
Within the Republican Party, Trump continues to maintain strong support, often securing majorities among GOP respondents. However, Democratic voters remain overwhelmingly negative toward him, and independents show higher levels of disapproval, which could shape pivotal races in competitive districts.
Political experts note that attacking polls is a familiar tactic for leaders unhappy with public data. Pollsters emphasize that surveys represent specific moments in time and depend on transparent methodology. Differences between polls are expected due to varying techniques, and long-term patterns typically carry more weight than individual results.
Trump’s narrative resonates deeply with supporters who hold longstanding distrust toward major media outlets and traditional polling. By framing unfavorable data as intentional distortion, he reinforces skepticism among his base while promoting alternative viewpoints that align more closely with his message. Critics argue that dismissing credible polling undermines constructive dialogue and encourages public confusion about objective measurements of opinion.
As the 2026 midterms approach, Trump’s approval trajectory, public messaging, and voter perceptions are likely to remain at the center of the national conversation. With control of Congress at stake and key races gaining momentum, the interplay between public opinion and campaign strategy will shape the political climate leading up to Election Day.
For now, the latest surveys highlight a nation evaluating the president’s performance through the lens of economic pressures, immigration controversies, and questions about national priorities. How these perceptions evolve in the coming months will influence not only the midterm results, but also the broader direction of American political discourse.
