Story perspectives

Trump's Approval Plummets Amid Economic Struggles Ahead of Midterms

12/17/2025

Center

Trump's Economic Struggles

U.S. President Donald Trump has an approval rating of 39% as of mid-December 2025, reflecting dissatisfaction with his economic policies amid inflation.
Reuters/Ipsos poll shows 33% approve of Trump's handling of the economy, down from 47% when he returned to office in January 2025.
Many Americans are altering their spending habits due to rising costs.
As the 2026 midterm elections approach, these economic challenges could affect Republican candidates' prospects.

Left

Trump's Economic Challenges

U.S. President Donald Trump faces growing scrutiny as the unemployment rate rose to 4.6%, the highest in four years.
Federal data show manufacturing job losses, with 58,000 positions cut since April 2025.
Vice President JD Vance is addressing voter concerns about the economy and urging patience for improvements.
Trump’s dismissal of affordability as a "Democratic hoax" alienates voters and complicates GOP prospects ahead of the 2026 midterms.

History

Historical Context

The Great Recession, which officially lasted from December 2007 to June 2009, was triggered by the subprime mortgage crisis and resulted in a peak U.S. unemployment rate of 10% in October 2009. The Federal Reserve's near-zero interest rates aimed to stimulate recovery, yet economic challenges persist, with a current unemployment rate of 4.6% as the 2026 midterms approach, echoing past political ramifications.

1 of 3

Trump's Economic Struggles

U.S. President Donald Trump has an approval rating of 39% as of mid-December 2025, reflecting dissatisfaction with his economic policies amid inflation.
Reuters/Ipsos poll shows 33% approve of Trump's handling of the economy, down from 47% when he returned to office in January 2025.
Many Americans are altering their spending habits due to rising costs.
As the 2026 midterm elections approach, these economic challenges could affect Republican candidates' prospects.

1 / 3