In the United States, recent polling data from late July 2026 indicates a significant decline in President Donald Trump's approval ratings. An AP-NORC poll conducted from July 23-27 revealed that only 33 percent of Americans approve of Trump's job performance, marking a 4-point drop from the previous survey. Concurrently, 66 percent of respondents expressed disapproval, which is an increase of 4 points. This represents the lowest approval rating Trump has recorded in AP-NORC polling since the beginning of his second term. The Quinnipiac University national poll, also conducted during the same period, showed similar results, with only 32 percent of registered voters approving of Trump's performance and 58 percent disapproving. The poll further indicated that only about a quarter of respondents believe Trump has a clear plan for handling the ongoing conflict, a decrease from 40 percent at the start of the war. Additionally, 62 percent of voters now view him as an ineffective world leader, up from 54 percent earlier in his second term. The disapproval ratings extend to Trump's handling of the situation with Iran, where only 28 percent of Americans approve, while 69 percent disapprove, reflecting a steady decline from 34 percent approval in June. The public sentiment regarding the military action in Iran is also negative, with only 33 percent believing the war is worth fighting. Furthermore, Trump's approval ratings on gas prices and inflation are particularly low, standing at 21 percent and 25 percent, respectively. A majority of voters, 55 percent, attribute the recent rise in gas prices to Trump's policies. The economic concerns are compounded by the fact that 40 percent of Americans cite gas prices as a major source of stress in their lives, a significant increase from earlier in the year. In comparison, Trump's approval rating at a similar point in his first term was 40 percent, highlighting a stark contrast in public perception. The political landscape is shifting, with 48 percent of voters expressing a preference for Democratic control of the House, compared to 41 percent favoring Republicans. The motivation to vote among Democrats is notably higher, with 57 percent indicating they are more motivated than in past midterms, compared to 39 percent of Republicans. Overall, the polling data reflects a challenging environment for Trump as he navigates public discontent over various issues, including the economy and foreign policy.
