Trump’s Ratings Tumble Amid Economic Discontent (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Persistent economic pressures are casting a long shadow over President Trump’s second term as voters prepare to render judgment in the upcoming midterm elections.
Trump’s Ratings Tumble Amid Economic Discontent
A recent survey by The Economist and YouGov captured the depth of public frustration, showing Trump’s net approval rating dipping to minus-18 points last week.[1][2] This marked the lowest point of his current tenure, though the decline appeared to stabilize in subsequent polling. Approval hovered around 40 percent, with disapproval reaching 57 percent in the latest data.[3][4]
Analysts pointed to unfulfilled promises from the 2024 campaign, where combating inflation stood as a central pledge. Voters who backed Trump expected swift action on rising costs, yet perceptions of economic hardship lingered. Polling averages reflected a net rating near minus-12 in broader aggregates.[5] This slide echoed patterns from past administrations where economic sentiment drove approval fluctuations.
Inflation Trends: Progress or Persistent Problem?
Official figures indicated inflation cooled to 2.7 percent over the year through December 2025, the lowest since 2020.[6][7] Core inflation fell to 2.6 percent, down from higher levels inherited at the start of the term.[8] The administration highlighted this as evidence of success, with headline rates holding below three percent for much of the year.
Critics argued the numbers masked everyday struggles, as tariffs threatened to add hundreds of dollars to household expenses in 2026.[9] Public views diverged from the data, with many feeling prices remained elevated on essentials. Approval for Trump’s handling of inflation ticked up slightly in early February polls, yet stayed underwater.[10]
Voters Prioritize Wallets Over Other Issues
Surveys consistently ranked the economy as the top concern heading into November’s contests. Affordability topped lists of voter priorities, outpacing immigration and health care in some measures.[11] Democrats eyed this vulnerability, positioning themselves to capitalize on cost-of-living complaints.
Historical precedents reinforced the pattern: elections often hinged on pocketbook realities. In early generic ballot tests, Democrats held narrow leads, signaling potential backlash.[12] Republicans countered by emphasizing wage gains and low unemployment, though consumer sentiment lagged.
Midterm Battlegrounds Shaped by Economic Fault Lines
| Issue | Republican Edge | Democrat Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | Moderate | Growing |
| Inflation | Declining | Strong |
| Affordability | Weak | Leading |
Competitive races in the House highlighted economic divides, with control of Congress at stake. Trump’s push to hold the majority faced headwinds from voter unease over tariffs and debt.[13] Swing districts amplified pocketbook messaging from both parties.
Polls showed a majority viewing the economy as worse off than a year prior, fueling Democratic optimism.[14] Yet, Republican base loyalty provided a buffer against broader erosion.
- Trump’s net approval sits at minus-18 in recent Economist/YouGov polling, tied to economic perceptions.
- Inflation eased to 2.7 percent in 2025, but tariff risks loom for 2026.
- Pocketbook issues dominate voter priorities, potentially tilting midterms toward Democrats.
As November approaches, the economy remains the ultimate referendum on Trump’s agenda. Strong action on affordability could steady the course, but inaction risks a voter revolt at the polls. What do you think will sway the midterms most? Tell us in the comments.
