A majority of registered voters in the United States say they are financially worse off under President Donald Trump’s administration, according to a recent poll conducted ahead of the November midterm elections. The survey highlights growing dissatisfaction with the president’s economic management amid rising inflation and cost-of-living concerns.
The nationwide poll, carried out online from August 7 to 10 among 1,913 registered voters, found that more than 53 percent reported a decline in their personal finances since Trump took office in January 2025. Notably, nearly 57 percent of independent voters and about a quarter of self-identified Republicans also expressed feeling worse off. The survey indicated that voters generally placed greater trust in Democrats than in Republicans to handle issues related to inflation and the cost of living.
Economy-related factors, traditionally a strength for Republican campaigns, appear to be eroding support for Trump and his party. Voters favored Democrats over Republicans on managing the economy and jobs, underscoring the challenges facing the Republican Party as midterms approach. The backdrop includes public unease over the ongoing war in Iran, which has contributed to increased borrowing costs and higher prices for fuel and consumer goods.
Although inflation rose at a slower pace in July due to declining fuel prices, the annual inflation rate remains at 3.4 percent—higher than at the end of Joe Biden’s presidency. Consumer sentiment recently dropped sharply to near-record lows as many Americans curtailed spending amid high prices. Real wages also fell last month, adding to financial pressures.
The poll revealed broad skepticism about the overall direction of the economy, with nearly two-thirds of registered voters stating they believe the economy is heading in the wrong direction. This included over one-third of Republicans. Only one in four respondents viewed the economic trajectory positively.
Trump’s approval rating has declined, with 55 percent of voters disapproving of his job performance. Among Republicans, nearly 20 percent disapproved, and Trump’s net approval rating within the party decreased by eight percentage points from the previous month. Disapproval was especially pronounced regarding his handling of inflation and the cost of living, with 64 percent of all registered voters, and about one-third of Republicans, expressing dissatisfaction.
The poll also showed Democrats leading Republicans 44 percent to 39 percent among likely voters, suggesting a competitive but favorable environment for the Democratic Party. Many political analysts view the midterms as a referendum on Trump’s presidency, even though he is not personally on the ballot.
In response, White House spokesperson Kush Desai emphasized the administration’s achievements, citing efforts to lower drug prices, reshore jobs, cut taxes, reduce violent crime, and secure the nation’s borders as evidence of progress under Trump’s leadership. However, economic challenges remain at the forefront of voter concerns as the November elections approach.