A recent national survey reveals mounting dissatisfaction among Americans regarding President Donald Trump’s economic stewardship, particularly in relation to rising living costs. Conducted by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, the poll shows a sharp decline in public approval of Trump’s handling of the economy, with just 26% expressing support, and an even lower 17% endorsing his management of the cost of living. These figures mark some of the lowest ratings since Trump began his second term.
The poll, conducted in early October 2026, comes as the country approaches the midterm elections, which will determine control of Congress. Despite Trump’s vigorous campaign schedule and efforts to energize voters by suggesting he is effectively on the ballot, his economic approval ratings have slipped significantly, raising concerns about his party’s prospects.
A majority of respondents—65%—hold Trump personally responsible for the persistent rise in prices, attributing inflation more to his policies than to external factors. This reflects considerable public frustration with Trump’s aggressive tariff policies and his administration’s ongoing involvement in the conflict with Iran. By comparison, a previous poll before the 2022 midterm elections recorded only 44% blaming then-President Joe Biden for inflation, with a majority attributing rising prices to circumstances beyond his control.
Americans report growing anxiety about affording basic necessities. Approximately half of those surveyed said they are “extremely” or “very” concerned about affording gas and groceries, with both figures having increased notably since mid-2026. Individuals who voted for Trump, such as Pedro Sanchez of Perris, California, expressed disappointment about having less disposable income due to escalating costs tied to fuel and other essentials.
Within Trump’s own base, dissatisfaction is also evident. About 60% of Republicans disapprove of his handling of the cost of living, a significant increase from earlier in the year. Some supporters acknowledge external challenges but remain critical of the administration’s focus. For instance, Kristen Slaven, a mental health therapist in Mississippi who typically votes Republican, said the administration’s priorities appear misplaced, citing frustration with symbolic political actions amid economic hardship.
Despite widespread criticism, some Republicans maintain that factors outside the president’s control are the primary driver of inflation. Fred Naumann, a Trump supporter in Wisconsin, emphasized the difficulty of managing inflation and supported some of the administration’s trade and foreign policy decisions, including tariffs and the war with Iran.
On trade, public approval of Trump’s approach is low, with only about 30% endorsing his handling of international negotiations, down from 40% earlier in 2026. A growing majority of 64% believe the president has gone too far with tariffs. Similarly, only 28% approve of Trump’s management of the Iran conflict, and 69% consider the war not worth pursuing.
Overall sentiment reflects a bleak assessment of Trump’s presidency at this stage. Approximately 60% of Americans say the nation is worse off economically than when he began his second term. Border security remains one area where Trump retains relative strength, with about half of respondents expressing approval.
The poll underscores the political risk Trump faces as the November midterms approach, with the economy and cost of living emerging as critical issues potentially shaping voter decisions.