The latest AP-NORC poll reveals a significant drop in President Trump’s approval for handling the U.S. economy, with only 31% of adults approving of his economic stewardship. This marks the lowest point for his **Trump Economy Approval** in either of his terms. Approval on this key issue has fallen from 40% in March, and this decline in **Trump Economy Approval** is concerning for Republicans as they prepare for the 2026 midterms, highlighting potential **midterm election challenges**. The current **US economy perception** is increasingly negative.
Trump Economy Approval Outlook Sour
Most U.S. adults feel negatively about the economy. Seven in 10 overall describe the nation’s economy as poor. Democrats and independents are particularly critical. Eight in 10 of these groups describe the economy as poor. Even among Republicans, sentiment has shifted regarding **Trump Economy Approval**. In March, 78% of Republicans approved of Trump’s handling of the economy. This figure dropped to 69% in the December poll. One Republican voter expressed concern about rising tariffs. The trend suggests a growing unease with economic conditions, impacting overall **Trump Economy Approval**. This erosion in **Trump Economy Approval** signifies a significant hurdle.
Immigration Approval Declines
Immigration, another signature issue for President Trump, has also seen a substantial approval drop. His rating on immigration fell from 49% in March to 38% in the latest poll. This decrease signals potential trouble for the administration. The decline suggests that even core issues may become liabilities, further impacting the perception of his **economic stewardship rating** alongside **Trump Economy Approval**. A related concern is the **immigration approval decline** and **border security approval**.
Border Security Remains a Relative Strength
Border security remains a stronger issue for Trump compared to the general economy or immigration. Fifty percent of U.S. adults approve of his handling of border security. This is a slight decrease from 55% in September. Approval on border security is higher than for the economy or immigration. Nearly half of Americans consider increasing security at the U.S.-Mexico border a high priority. However, there is less consensus on other immigration policies. Only about 3 in 10 believe deporting immigrants in the U.S. illegally should be a high priority. While not directly **Trump Economy Approval**, it influences the broader perception of his administration’s competence.
Overall Approval Holds Steady Amidst Economic Concerns
Despite the declines on specific issues like **Trump Economy Approval**, President Trump’s **overall job approval** rating has not fallen as steeply. The new poll shows 36% of Americans approve of his overall job performance. This is down slightly from 42% in March. This suggests some Americans may differentiate between the president’s overall job and his handling of specific policies. Stark partisan divisions persist. Eight in 10 Republicans approve of his presidency. Conversely, about 9 in 10 Democrats and 7 in 10 independents disapprove, contributing to the **Republican approval drop** in key areas.
Political Headwinds for 2026 Elections
The declining approval on key issues like the economy and immigration could significantly impact the upcoming **2026 US elections**. Historically, a president’s party often faces losses in midterm elections, particularly when the president’s approval rating is low, and **Trump Economy Approval** is particularly weak. Democrats currently hold a significant lead on the generic congressional ballot. Americans are increasingly focused on economic concerns. Lowering prices is seen as a top priority by many voters. This news indicates a challenging political landscape for the Trump administration and the Republican party heading into the crucial **2026 US elections**, especially with waning **Trump Economy Approval**.
