Trump Claims He's 'Popular' Despite Low Approval Ratings

Former president touts economic record in Fox interview as polls show his approval in the 30s.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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In a recent interview with Fox Business Network's Larry Kudlow, former President Donald Trump claimed he is "popular" and that the U.S. has "the greatest economy ever" despite new polling data showing his approval ratings in the 30s and a significant decline in his economic ratings.

Why it matters

Trump's comments about his popularity and the state of the economy come as he faces low approval ratings and the prospect of significant midterm losses for his party. His claims about his standing with voters and the economy's performance could impact the upcoming midterm elections and shape the political narrative around his potential 2024 presidential run.

The details

In the interview, Trump stated, "I'm popular, and I've done well," and declared, "I think we have the greatest economy actually ever in history." However, recent polls show Trump's approval rating currently stands at 39% according to an NBC News poll and 37% in The Economist/YouGov survey, with a disapproval rating of -13.7. In comparison, former President Joe Biden held a rating of -12.2 at the same point in his presidency.

  • The interview with Larry Kudlow took place in February 2026.
  • Trump's current approval rating is based on recent polling data.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who is claiming he is "popular" despite low approval ratings.

Larry Kudlow

The host of the Fox Business Network show where Trump was interviewed.

Joe Biden

The former president of the United States, whose approval rating is used as a comparison to Trump's.

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What they’re saying

“I'm popular, and I've done well,”

— Donald Trump, Former President (Fox Business Network)

“I think we have the greatest economy actually ever in history.”

— Donald Trump, Former President (Fox Business Network)

What’s next

The upcoming midterm elections will be a key test of Trump's political standing and the Republican Party's performance under his influence.

The takeaway

Trump's claims about his popularity and the strength of the economy appear to be at odds with the reality reflected in recent polling data, raising questions about his ability to shape the political narrative and the potential impact on the upcoming midterm elections and his potential 2024 presidential run.