Full Breakdown
Trump’s Approval Rating Hits New Low Amid Iran War and Cost-of-Living Concerns
5/2/2026, 8:24:40 AM
Core Event: Approval Rating Falls to 34 %
A Reuters/Ipsos poll released May 1 2026 shows President Donald Trump’s overall job approval at 34 percent, the lowest level of his second term. The figure follows a steady slide from 47 percent in January 2025 and matches the low recorded in his first term in 2017.
Background & Context: Iran Conflict and Energy Shock
U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran began 28 Feb 2025, prompting Iranian closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The blockage cut roughly one-fifth of global oil flow, raising U.S. gasoline above $4.18 per gallon—a 40 percent jump that fed household inflation.
Data, Statistics, and Gaps
Overall approval is 34 % with 64 % disapproval (±3 pts). Issue ratings: cost-of-living 22 %, economy 27 %, immigration 47 %, foreign policy 41 %, Iran war 34 %. Among Republicans, 78 % still approve, yet 41 % disapprove of his cost-of-living handling. Men and white voters approve at roughly 37-44 %; Trump voters under 35 approve at 57 % versus 87 % for those 50+. Pew’s April 2026 survey also shows 34 % overall but higher confidence on immigration (38 %) and military force (41 %). Strength-in-Numbers reports cost-of-living approval at 26 % and a net –46, underscoring poll variation.
Why It Matters
The November 2026 midterms will decide control of Congress. Economic anxiety and cracks in the GOP base—41 % of Republicans dissatisfied with cost-of-living policy—raise the risk of losing majorities. High disapproval among independents and younger voters historically predicts incumbent setbacks.
Official Statements & Responses
White House spokesman Davis Ingle said, “The ultimate poll was November 5 2024 when nearly 80 million Americans elected President Trump to deliver on his commonsense agenda.” He added, “No other President has accomplished more than President Trump, who is working tirelessly to create jobs, cool inflation, increase housing affordability, and more.” The administration defended the Iran operation as necessary to force a cease-fire.
Criticism & Opposition
Survey respondents voiced discontent: 53 % say the Iran war has not been worth it, and 70 % disapprove of the conflict. Among Republicans, 41 % disapprove of Trump’s cost-of-living management—a historically high share for a president’s supporters. Independents favor Democrats by 14 points.
On-the-Ground Reports
Veteran and Trump voter Kathryn Bright told the Associated Press, “I feel disgusted with myself for backing Trump… I feel betrayed, like he was a wolf in sheep’s clothing.” She added, “It’s like a high-school class president promising pizza every day and then lying.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “Trump literally broke the scale of this graph on my data portal,” — G. Elliott Morris
- “disgusted with myself” — Kathryn Bright, 60, voter
- “I feel betrayed, like he was a wolf in sheep’s clothing,” — Kathryn Bright
- “It’s like high school class president: ‘I’m gonna promise we are going to get pizza every single day,’” — Kathryn Bright
What’s Next
Republican strategists will watch the Iran stalemate, fuel-price volatility, and voter fatigue as midterms near. The White House will intensify economic messaging while diplomats seek to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. A recent Supreme Court ruling on redistricting could further shape congressional outcomes.
