Trump approval hits new low as inflation concerns and Iran war weigh on voters

WASHINGTON, DC: US President Donald Trump has recorded the lowest job approval rating of his second term, with just 37% of Americans approving of his performance and 63% disapproving, according to a new NBC News Decision Desk poll.

Half of the respondents said they strongly disapprove, signaling intensifying dissatisfaction with the administration’s direction.

Economic anxiety dominates public mood

The poll highlights widespread concern over the economy, with inflation and the rising cost of living emerging as the most pressing issues for voters.

Only 32% of Americans approve of Trump’s handling of inflation, while 68% disapprove.

Rising prices have directly impacted households, with 40% saying their financial situation is worse than a year ago, the highest level recorded during his current term.

Gas prices are also a major concern, with nearly two-thirds of respondents saying they are a burden on their families.

Growing pessimism about Iran war 

Public sentiment about the nation’s trajectory has also worsened, with two-thirds of Americans saying the country is on the wrong track, the most pessimistic outlook since Trump returned to office.

While the president continues to enjoy strong backing from Republican voters, support within the party has softened slightly compared to earlier in the year.

The handling of the conflict with Iran has emerged as another major weak point for the administration.

Two-thirds of Americans disapprove of Trump’s approach to the war, and a majority oppose further US military involvement.

Younger Americans, in particular, are strongly against escalation, with nearly three-quarters favouring no additional military action.

Immigration remains a mixed issue

On immigration, a key pillar of Trump’s political platform, the president has seen modest improvement.

Approval for his handling of border security stands at 44%, though a majority still disapprove.

The shift follows changes within the administration, including personnel reshuffles and a reduction in enforcement actions.

Political risks ahead of midterms

The findings underscore the challenges Republicans face as they prepare to defend their congressional majorities in the upcoming midterm elections.

Voter frustration over economic pressures and foreign policy comes despite Trump’s campaign promises to curb inflation and avoid overseas conflicts.

The poll also indicates broad support for stricter voting requirements, with three-quarters of Americans favouring mandatory government-issued photo identification at the polls.

A majority of those respondents also support including proof of citizenship.

The NBC News Decision Desk poll, conducted with SurveyMonkey, surveyed more than 32,000 adults between March 30 and April 13.