Donald Trump’s approval rating fell to 39% in the Emerson College survey conducted May 24-25, 2026, marking a low point in monthly polling by that group [1]. Another poll by Economist/YouGov showed an even lower 34% approval rating in May 2026, with a 59% disapproval rating and a net approval score of negative 24 points, the worst since tracking began in 2009 [1, 2].
The polls reflect growing dissatisfaction with Trump’s economic management. His net support on issues like inflation and prices dropped to negative 43 points as rising gasoline prices and worsening inflation amid the Iran war damaged public confidence [2]. Trump’s disapproval ratings were consistently high, ranging from 55% to 61% across multiple polls in May 2026 [1].
Despite these low overall ratings, Trump maintains strong control within the Republican Party. However, a majority of Republican voters (52%) oppose Trump’s anti-weaponization fund established by the Justice Department [1].
Earlier in May, an Associated Press-NORC poll showed Trump’s approval rating slightly increased to 37% from 33% in mid-April, but the gains were short-lived as later polls showed further decline [1]. Emerson College’s data showed a minor drop from 40% approval in April to 39% in late May 2026 [1].
The political and economic pressures have weighed heavily on Trump’s public image amid ongoing international tensions. The worsening inflation linked to the Iran war and gasoline price spikes have been key factors behind the sharp decline in economic approval ratings [2].
More polling data on economic sentiment and political support is expected in the coming weeks as the administration navigates these compounding challenges.
