Donald Trump’s Approval Rating Sinks to Lowest Point of Second Term

The latest poll numbers are a stark reminder that Donald Trump’s presidency is facing a perfect storm. The economy, already in free fall, has been further strained by the war with Iran, which has siphoned off what little goodwill he had left. According to the New York Times/Siena poll, Trump’s approval rating stands at 37%, his lowest since returning to office in January 2025.

Historically, presidential approval ratings have been a reliable indicator of how the party controlling the White House will perform in midterm elections. Given this trend, it’s no surprise that most Americans are questioning Trump’s decision to go to war with Iran. As November’s US midterm elections loom, nearly two-thirds of voters say entering the conflict was the wrong call.

Fuel prices have skyrocketed to almost $4.52 per gallon nationwide – up from $3.18 just a year ago. This is not just an issue for Americans; it’s a global problem. The economic costs of this war are swift and merciless, affecting economies around the world. As the US and Israel continue their campaign against Iran, fuel prices have become a benchmark for economic concerns ahead of elections.

Trump’s handling of the economy was once seen as his greatest strength, but now 64% of voters disapprove of his economic policies – a staggering number given the issue has been his bedrock since day one. Among Democratic voters, 44% express dissatisfaction with their own party’s economic record.

Trump’s response to these criticisms has been characteristically dismissive. When asked about Americans’ financial situation, he shrugged off concerns, saying “I don’t think about Americans’ financial situation” when it comes to seeking a peace deal. This tone-deaf approach speaks volumes about his priorities – and those of the party in power.

The decline in Trump’s approval rating has been steady over the past year. By October 2025, nine months after his return to office, his ratings had already fallen to 42%. Researchers at the University of Massachusetts Lowell noted that Joe Biden’s approval rating took nearly three years to reach 42%, but it was a more gradual decline.

The administration’s heavy-handed approach to deportations has undoubtedly contributed to this decline. However, the war on Iran and its economic fallout have accelerated the process. As one voter from Kentucky told The Guardian, “Everybody’s suffering from gas prices” – a sentiment echoed across America.

This is not just a problem for Trump; it’s a symptom of a larger issue: the polarizing nature of American politics. It’s clear that neither party has an easy solution to these economic woes or the war on Iran. What’s also evident, however, is that voters are growing increasingly disillusioned with both major parties.

As we head towards November’s midterm elections, it’s worth remembering that this is not just a vote for or against Trump – it’s a referendum on the entire direction of American politics. Will either party be able to course-correct and address these pressing issues? Or will we see more of the same: a presidency that seems increasingly out of touch with the needs of its citizens?