Trump’s Approval Rating Hits Record Low as Economic Concerns Grow Ahead of US Midterms

Date: October 20, 2026

US President Donald Trump is facing growing political pressure as his approval rating falls to a new low, with rising fuel prices and concerns about the economy affecting public opinion ahead of the November midterm elections.

A new Reuters/Ipsos poll found that only 31% of Americans approve of Trump’s performance as president, marking the lowest rating of either of his presidential terms. The survey results highlight the challenge facing Trump and his Republican Party as voters prepare to elect members of Congress on November 3, 2026. <Cite refs={["turn949445news13","turn949445news3"]}/>

Trump’s Approval Rating Falls to 31%

The four-day Reuters/Ipsos survey, which closed on October 19, showed that Trump’s approval rating had declined by one percentage point compared with the previous poll conducted two weeks earlier.

The findings suggest that public dissatisfaction remains a significant challenge for the president. Although approval ratings can fluctuate between surveys, the latest result points to growing difficulties for the White House as the midterm campaign enters a crucial period. <Cite refs={["turn949445news13"]}/>

Economy and Rising Fuel Prices Concern Voters

Economic conditions have emerged as a major issue for American voters. Rising petrol prices and pressure on household budgets are contributing to concerns about the cost of everyday living.

According to the Reuters/Ipsos poll, 68% of Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of the economy. The figure also includes 37% of respondents who identify as Republicans, indicating that economic dissatisfaction extends beyond his political opponents.

For many households, fuel costs and other everyday expenses are important factors when assessing the government’s performance. These concerns could influence voter decisions in closely contested congressional races. <Cite refs={["turn949445news13","turn949445news16"]}/>

Democrats Lead Republicans Ahead of the Midterm Elections

The poll also found that Democrats hold a 12-point advantage over Republicans in the national congressional preference question.

Among registered voters, 47% said they would vote for Democratic candidates if the election were held at the time of the survey, compared with 35% who preferred Republicans.

The result represents a significant lead for Democrats in the current election cycle. However, national polling does not determine the outcome of individual congressional races, which depend on results across specific states and districts. <Cite refs={["turn949445news13"]}/>

Why the Midterm Elections Matter

The November 3 elections will determine which party controls the US House of Representatives and Senate. The results could significantly affect Trump’s ability to advance his legislative agenda during the remaining years of his presidency.

If Democrats gain control of either chamber, they could create additional obstacles for the administration’s proposals and increase congressional scrutiny of its policies. Republicans, meanwhile, will need to persuade voters that their economic plans can address concerns about prices and household finances.

The outcome will depend on turnout, local campaign issues and the preferences of voters in competitive districts.

What Happens Next?

Trump’s approval rating and public views of the economy are likely to remain important topics throughout the final weeks of the campaign. Both parties are expected to focus on issues that matter directly to households, including the cost of living, energy prices, jobs and economic growth.

While polls provide a snapshot of public opinion rather than a guaranteed election result, the latest findings indicate that economic dissatisfaction could be a major factor in the midterm contest.

Conclusion

Donald Trump’s approval rating has fallen to 31% in the latest Reuters/Ipsos poll, while Democrats lead Republicans by 12 points among registered voters in the national congressional preference question. With economic concerns weighing on public opinion, the November 3 midterm elections could become a major test of support for Trump and his administration.

The final outcome will depend on how Americans vote across the country and whether either party can turn its polling position into victories at the ballot box.

Source: Reuters/Ipsos polling, reported October 19–20, 2026.