Full Breakdown
Congressional Approval Hits Record Low Amid Scandals and Stalled Legislation
4/23/2026, 11:52:23 PM
Current Approval Ratings and Public Sentiment
Recent polling data reveals that congressional approval in the United States has plummeted to an all-time low, with only 10 percent of Americans expressing satisfaction with the performance of lawmakers. This figure matches the record high of disapproval, which stands at 86 percent, as reported by Gallup. CNN data analyst Harry Enten highlighted this alarming trend, noting that more Americans believe the moon landings were faked (12 percent) than approve of Congress. Enten remarked, “You managed to do it. Congratulations,” in a sarcastic tone directed at Congress for achieving such low approval ratings.
Context of Disapproval
The current disapproval ratings coincide with a series of scandals and legislative stagnation within Congress. Notably, the Department of Homeland Security has been embroiled in a shutdown lasting over ten weeks, contributing to public frustration. Recent allegations of sexual misconduct involving Representatives Eric Swalwell and Tony Gonzales have further tarnished the reputation of Congress. Additionally, Representative Cory Mills is currently under investigation by the House Ethics Committee for similar allegations. The legislative output has also been notably low, with fewer than 40 bills signed into law in the previous year, marking a significant decline in activity for a modern presidency.
Republican Discontent
Interestingly, the discontent is not limited to the general public; even among Republicans, approval ratings for Congress have drastically declined. Enten pointed out that the net approval rating among Republicans dropped from plus-33 percent in March 2025 to minus-56 percent, reflecting an 89-point shift in just over a year. This dramatic decline suggests that dissatisfaction with Congress transcends party lines, indicating a broader crisis of confidence in legislative effectiveness.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the dismal approval ratings, Enten emphasized the need for Congress to take actionable steps to improve public perception. He stated, “They can actually do something, do something, do something. Then maybe people might actually like it.” However, he expressed skepticism about the likelihood of significant changes occurring, suggesting that the current state of affairs might persist.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Congress have pointed to the lack of legislative progress and the ongoing scandals as primary reasons for the public's discontent. The combination of a government shutdown, ethical controversies, and minimal legislative achievements has led to widespread frustration among constituents. As Enten noted, “There’s nothing” Congress can do to rectify the situation, indicating a pervasive sense of hopelessness regarding the institution's ability to regain public trust.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Just 10 percent of Americans approve of the job that Congress is doing,” — Harry Enten, CNN Data Analyst
- “So therefore, as I said, stand up and give yourselves a round of applause. You managed to do it. Congratulations.” — Harry Enten, CNN Data Analyst
- “They can actually do something, do something, do something. Then maybe people might actually like it,” — Harry Enten, CNN Data Analyst
The current state of congressional approval reflects a significant disconnect between lawmakers and the American public, exacerbated by scandals and ineffective governance.
