Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Trump’s Approval Plummets to 31% Amid Economy, Iran War

5/25/2026

49 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump's approval fell to a historic low of 31% with 64% disapproval in an American Research Group poll May 16-20 2026.
The poll cites worsening economic sentiment and the war in Iran as primary drivers, with 70% saying the economy is getting worse.
Party officials warn the president’s low ratings could hurt GOP chances in the 2026 midterms, even as Trump-backed candidates win primaries in Kentucky, Louisiana and Indiana.

History

Historical Context

After the June 1972 Watergate break-in, revelations and President Richard Nixon’s August 9 1974 resignation collapsed Republican support, led to the conviction of 48 officials, and ushered two decades of Democratic dominance in Congress. GOP leaders cite that history as a warning as President Donald Trump’s May 2026 approval falls to nationally historic lows.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump's approval fell to a historic low of 31% with 64% disapproval in an American Research Group poll May 16-20 2026.
The poll cites worsening economic sentiment and the war in Iran as primary drivers, with 70% saying the economy is getting worse.
Party officials warn the president’s low ratings could hurt GOP chances in the 2026 midterms, even as Trump-backed candidates win primaries in Kentucky, Louisiana and Indiana.

1 / 2