Full Breakdown
Trump’s Polling Slump Signals Trouble Ahead of Midterms
4/25/2026, 7:42:55 AM
Plummeting Approval Ratings
Recent polls indicate President Donald Trump’s approval has fallen to historic lows in his second term. An AP poll shows a 33 % overall approval rating, while CNN-aggregated data places it at 39 %. Among independents, only 23 % approve of his performance; 21 % back the war on Iran and 19 % rate his handling of the economy positively.
Background & Context
The administration’s 2025 “war on Iran” has coincided with rising energy costs, inflation at 3.3 %, gasoline above $4 per gallon, a 51 % drop in job growth in 2024, and higher unemployment. Analysts link these trends to the decline in voter sentiment ahead of the 2026 midterms.
Data & Statistics
Key figures: overall approval 33 % (AP) vs. 39 % (CNN); independent approval 23 %; independent support for the Iran war 21 % (79 % oppose); independent economic approval 19 % and cost-of-living approval 12 %; economic rating fell from +6 to –32 points; independent economic rating –55 points.
Criticism & Opposition
Commentators described the numbers as “absolutely terrible” and “downright atrocious,” warning that the trend could jeopardize Republican control of Congress. They note that low independent approval and worsening economic metrics may reduce electoral support for Republican candidates.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The AP poll and CNN-aggregated data differ on overall approval (33 % vs. 39 %). The AP provides direct percentages for independents, while CNN uses point-based ratings, complicating direct comparison. No official White House response appears in the sources.
Verbatim Quotes
- “You’re effed!” — Megyn Kelly, Host, The Megyn Kelly Show
- “Democrat or republican You got 80% of the independents against you?” — Megyn Kelly, Host, The Megyn Kelly Show
- “Oh, it’s absolutely terrible!” — Harry Enten, CNN Data Analyst
- “I don’t know if you’re seeing my eyes literally pop off the screen here, because these numbers are just downright atrocious. They’re the worst ever!” — Harry Enten, CNN Data Analyst
- “Negative 55 points?! That’s a nearly 60-point drop.” — Harry Enten, CNN Data Analyst
- “Wave adios, amigos! Kiss goodbye to that Republican majority in the House, and maybe the Senate as well!” — Harry Enten, CNN Data Analyst
Implications and Next Steps
Low independent approval and deteriorating economic ratings threaten the Republican Party’s ability to retain a House majority and possibly Senate control in the November 2026 midterms. Campaign teams are expected to monitor the polling closely and may adjust messaging on economic policy and foreign engagements to stem further declines.
