Trump’s approval rating falls to new low in second term: Poll
2 Min Read
A new Economist/YouGov poll shows Trump’s approval rating at 39%, a second-term low, raising concerns for Republicans ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
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US President Donald Trump speaks at the White House on November 5, 2020, in Washington (AP)
US President Donald Trump’s approval rating has dropped to a new second-term low, according to a fresh survey from The Economist/YouGov.
The poll, conducted September 12–15 among 1,567 US adults with a 3.6% margin of error, found Trump’s approval at 39% and disapproval at 57%.
“The 39% of Americans who approve of Trump is the lowest share to do so in any weekly Economist/YouGov Poll in Trump’s second term,” said Allen Houston, YouGov’s public relations lead.
“The 57% who disapprove is the most to do so in Trump’s second term,” he added. Last week, Trump’s approval stood at 41%, with 54% disapproving.
Why it matters
The dip reflects declining support among independents, Hispanics, and voters concerned with Trump’s handling of the economy and immigration. Analysts warn that the slump could weaken Republicans ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, affecting candidate recruitment, fundraising, and campaign messaging.
Approval ratings are a key political barometer. Sub-majority levels often signal vulnerability for the president’s party, historically leading to losses in midterm contests.
Key issues dragging down approval
The survey shows Trump is underwater on multiple issues, including:
- Jobs and the economy
- Inflation and prices
- Immigration
- Civil rights
- Crime and guns
The poll was also the first conducted since the killing of Charlie Kirk, a development that has intensified partisan tensions.
Reactions
Robert Reich, former US labor secretary, said on X: “Trump’s approval ratings are tanking. He’s blowing up the economy… He is a weak and failing president with his back against the wall.”
Trump's approval ratings are tanking. He's blowing up the economy. He hasn't done squat to help the working class. The Epstein scandal haunts him.
— Robert Reich (@RBReich) September 10, 2025
He is a weak and failing president with his back against the wall.
Keep up the pressure.
Bernie Sanders, independent senator from Vermont, previously noted, “The American people do not want oligarchy, authoritarianism or attacks on Social Security, Medicaid or the VA. And the resistance is just beginning.”
On Truth Social, Trump countered: “The Republicans are going to do a Midterm Convention in order to show the great things we have done since the Presidential Election of 2024. Time and place to be determined. Stay tuned.”
Strategists warn that if Trump’s ratings remain below 50%, Republicans could face a difficult midterm cycle, with heightened opposition turnout and added pressure on vulnerable swing-district candidates.
