A new national poll has delivered one of the most damaging signals yet for Donald Trump—and it’s hitting where it hurts most: the economy.
According to the latest survey by AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, nearly 7 in 10 Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of the economy, marking a sharp and rapid decline in public confidence.
Just 30% approve—down from 38% only a month ago.
It’s his lowest economic approval rating since returning to the White House.
📊 A Sudden Drop — And a Dangerous Trend
The numbers paint a troubling picture:
- 70% disapprove of Trump’s economic performance
- Only 20% of independents approve, down significantly from March
- Even among Republicans, support has dropped from 74% to 62%
At the same time, public perception of the economy is worsening fast.
Nearly three-quarters of Americans now describe it as “poor”, a sharp rise from earlier this year.
💸 The Reality vs. The Promise
During his campaign, Trump promised a booming “Golden Age” economy—lower prices, cheaper gas, and stronger growth.
Instead, Americans are facing a different reality:
- Inflation remains around 3.3%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Gas prices have climbed to roughly $4 per gallon
- Everyday costs—from groceries to housing—continue to strain households
Despite this, Trump has insisted publicly that there is “no inflation” and that he built “the strongest economy in history.”
For many voters, that disconnect is becoming harder to ignore.
🧍 Voters Speak Out: “I Feel Betrayed”
Perhaps the most striking sign of shifting sentiment comes from former supporters.
One voter, a retired Air Force captain who backed Trump in 2024, described feeling “betrayed” by unmet promises on cost of living and foreign policy.
“It’s like someone promising everything—and delivering nothing,” she said, reflecting a growing frustration among parts of Trump’s base.
⚠️ Midterm Warning Signs
With midterm elections approaching, the timing of the poll couldn’t be worse for the administration.
Economic confidence has historically been one of the strongest predictors of electoral outcomes.
And right now, that confidence is slipping.
Fast.
Even small shifts among independents—now showing just 20% approval—could have major consequences in closely contested races.
📉 A Presidency Under Pressure
Trump’s overall approval rating has also dropped to 33%, down five points in a single month.
Meanwhile, reports suggest the president has responded by highlighting favorable polls and positive media coverage—an attempt to counter the growing wave of negative data.
But the broader trend remains clear:
Americans are increasingly uneasy about the economy.
And they’re starting to say it out loud.
🧭 The Bottom Line
For any president, the economy is the ultimate test.
Right now, the numbers suggest that many Americans believe that test isn’t being passed.
Whether that sentiment holds—or worsens—could define not just the next election…
But the future of the presidency itself.
