Introduction

President Donald Trump's approval rating has fallen to 32 percent, marking the lowest point of his political career and signaling a significant shift in voter sentiment just months into his term.

What Happened

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted in mid-September found the president's overall approval down from 35 percent the previous week. Support among his own Republican partisans dropped to 73 percent, down nine points from eight days earlier. The poll also revealed that just 17 percent of respondents approve of Trump's handling of the cost of living, which voters have identified as the top issue heading into the November midterms. Among Republicans, a majority now disapprove of his approach on inflation, with 51 percent opposed compared to 44 percent who approve.

Why This Matters

The decline in support comes as the Iran conflict continues to drive up fuel costs, with 82 percent of those polled saying the confrontation will persist for an extended period. Only 34 percent approve of the military strikes on Iran, while the broader economic impact threatens to erode the president's standing among key voter groups. The poll also shows a growing partisan divide: while Trump retains strong backing on immigration among Republicans, just 36 percent of Americans overall support his hardline approach, and 55 percent disapprove. These dynamics could reshape the political landscape as voters prepare to decide control of Congress.

Key Takeaways

  • Trump's overall approval stands at 32 percent, the lowest of his political career.
  • Republican support has slipped to 73 percent, down nine points from the previous week.
  • Just 17 percent approve of his handling of the cost of living, the top voter concern.
  • Among Republicans, 51 percent now disapprove of his inflation handling, while 44 percent approve.
  • Eighty-two percent of respondents believe the Iran conflict will continue for an extended period.
  • Only 34 percent approve of the strikes on Iran, while 43 percent prefer Democrats and 35 percent prefer Republicans in the upcoming midterms.
  • Just 36 percent of Americans overall support Trump's immigration approach, while 55 percent disapprove.
  • Thirty-five percent approve of his crime-fighting policy, compared to 50 percent who disapprove.
  • The poll surveyed 1,277 U.S. adults with a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.

Conclusion

With his approval at a career low and key issues like inflation and foreign policy driving voter concerns, Trump faces an uphill battle as the midterm elections approach. The polling data suggests a widening gap between the president's base and the broader electorate, particularly on economic and security matters. Analysts will be watching closely to see whether these trends translate into tangible shifts in congressional control.