President Donald Trump is confronting declining approval ratings as he approaches the midterm elections, according to multiple recent polls. While his administration highlights successes in economic indicators such as inflation and food prices, public sentiment suggests a growing portion of Americans are dissatisfied with his performance.
The first year of Trump’s second term has been marked by high-profile controversies and challenging policy issues. Federal immigration enforcement, the ongoing fallout from the Epstein investigation, and diplomatic tensions involving Greenland have all contributed to a complex political environment. These developments appear to be reflected in polling data, as many voters express frustration with the president’s handling of domestic and international matters.
Several surveys conducted in early January 2026 indicate that Trump’s overall approval rating is below the 50 percent mark. An AP-NORC poll, conducted through January 8, 2026, found that 59 percent of U.S. adults disapprove of his performance, while only 40 percent approve. The survey also explored public opinion on specific policy areas:
