One year into his second term, President Donald Trump faces a significant shift in public opinion. Recent polling reveals that many Americans are questioning the administration’s direction as the country nears the 2026 midterm elections.
A recent AP-NORC poll shows that only 40% of U.S. adults approve of the President’s performance. Despite running on a platform of economic strength, only 37% of voters approve of his handling of the economy. Furthermore, nearly half of the voters surveyed feel their lives are worse now than they were four years ago.
The administration’s strict immigration policies have drawn intense scrutiny. The recent killings of U.S. citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis have sparked nationwide protests. Even within the Republican party, some leaders are calling for investigations into the use of force by the Department of Homeland Security.
Foreign policy has also become a point of contention. The President’s interest in acquiring Greenland and his threats of tariffs against NATO allies have alienated traditional partners. Voters have expressed concerns that these aggressive stances could lead to costly trade wars or military escalations.
While the President promised to lower grocery prices and the general cost of living, many families still struggle to make ends meet. Critics argue that his trade policies have not yet made goods cheaper for the average consumer, leading to high disapproval regarding his management of inflation.
With the midterm elections approaching, the political landscape remains unsteady. The results in November will determine if the President keeps control of Congress. While Trump has dismissed these polls as “fake,” the data suggests an exhausted public looking for stability.