Story perspectives

Trump Supporters Slip as Cost-of-Living Woes Grow

6/19/2026

Left

Trump Losing Support

Rural and blue-collar voters who backed Trump in 2024 say gas prices, tariffs and cost-of-living pressures are pulling them away.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s overall national approval is 36 percent and disapproval is 59 percent in the latest Reuters/Ipsos poll.
Only 16 percent say their finances improved, while 49 percent report they are worse off.
64 percent say cost of living is economic problem, while only 30 percent rate Trump’s handling well.

Right

Independents Boost Democrats

Independent voters backed Democratic congressional candidates by 13 points, 35 percent to 22 percent, signaling hurdles for Republicans in the November 3 midterms.
A cease-fire agreement between the United States and Iran has begun easing gasoline prices that spiked after February attacks.
President Donald Trump’s overall approval sits at 36 percent, with 59 percent disapproval.
Cost-of-living handling approval rose to 24 percent, versus his 47 percent rating at term start in January 2025.

History

Historical Context

The 1979 U.S. energy crisis erupted after the Iranian Revolution cut oil exports, echoing the 1973 OAPEC embargo that lifted in March 1974 but had already driven U.S. gasoline prices up 43% between May 1973 and June 1974. Price controls and rationing then spurred long lines, political protests and a drop in President Jimmy Carter’s approval, showing how sharp energy shocks can erode incumbent support.

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Trump Losing Support

Rural and blue-collar voters who backed Trump in 2024 say gas prices, tariffs and cost-of-living pressures are pulling them away.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s overall national approval is 36 percent and disapproval is 59 percent in the latest Reuters/Ipsos poll.
Only 16 percent say their finances improved, while 49 percent report they are worse off.
64 percent say cost of living is economic problem, while only 30 percent rate Trump’s handling well.

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