An Economist poll reveals Donald Trump’s net approval rating has fallen to -20, the lowest since the start of his second term, fueled by opposition to the war with Iran.
Declining Approval and Iran War Opposition
Donald Trump’s net approval rating stands at -20, eight percentage points lower than during the same period of his first presidential term and the lowest since the beginning of his second.
The weekly magazine noted that opposition to the war with Iran, supported by only 28% of Americans, is likely responsible for the decline. 59% of respondents disapprove of the war, which began on February 28th, leading to rising oil prices and increased production and transportation costs.
Demographic Divisions in Support
Trump’s supporters continue to largely back his actions as president, with white men remaining particularly supportive. Young voters and representatives of ethnic minorities express the most dissatisfaction.
Trump does not enjoy support among the most highly educated, and voters of retirement age, typically strong Republican supporters, hold a “lukewarm” attitude. Dissatisfaction with Trump is widespread even in states that voted for him in 2024, potentially concerning for Republicans ahead of November’s congressional by-elections.
Public Opinion on Military Operation
According to an AP-NORC poll, six out of ten Americans believe the U.S. military operation against Iran “went too far.” Approximately half of Republicans responded that the operation was “just right,” while 20% felt the war did not go far enough, and around 25% disagreed.
Second Term and Historical Approval Ratings
Trump’s second term began in January 2025, after he defeated Kamala Harris in the 2024 election and returned to the White House following a four-year break.
At the end of his first term, Donald Trump’s average approval rating (according to Gallup) was 34%, the lowest point of his presidency, influenced by events at the Capitol in January 2021. His average approval rating throughout his first term was approximately 41%.
