Majority of Voters Disapprove of Trump's Performance, Citing Economic Concerns

Fox News poll shows rising dissatisfaction with president and Congress amid inflation and cost-of-living pressures

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A new Fox News poll shows that 57% of US voters disapprove of President Donald Trump's job performance, with economic issues like the rising cost of living driving much of the dissatisfaction. The survey also found deep political divisions, with 95% of Democrats disapproving of Trump compared to 87% of Republicans approving. Independent voters remain strongly critical, with 72% disapproving. The poll indicates that concerns over inflation, grocery prices, utilities, healthcare, and housing costs are major factors behind the negative ratings.

Why it matters

The poll results highlight the extent to which economic issues have become a major political liability for the Trump administration and the Republican Party more broadly. With a majority of voters disapproving of the president's handling of the economy and cost-of-living concerns, these findings could shape the political landscape heading into the 2026 elections.

The details

According to the Fox News poll, Trump's approval rating is 35 points underwater on the cost of living, with 32% approving and 67% disapproving. His handling of tariffs is 27 points underwater, while the economy and healthcare are each 23 points negative. The survey also found that 81% of voters say grocery prices have increased over the past year, including 56% who say they have increased significantly. Large numbers also report rising costs for utilities (79%), healthcare (71%), housing (65%) and gasoline (51%). Only 22% say inflation is completely or mostly under control.

  • The Fox News poll was conducted in early March 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States.

Daron Shaw

A Republican pollster who conducted the Fox News poll along with Democratic pollster Chris Anderson.

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What they’re saying

“Rising political anger could shape upcoming elections. Research suggests anger can be a powerful motivator for political participation and may partly explain strong Democratic performances in several recent special elections and early 2026 primaries.”

— Daron Shaw, Republican pollster (Fox News)

The takeaway

The Fox News poll underscores the extent to which economic concerns, particularly around inflation and the rising cost of living, have become a major political liability for the Trump administration and the Republican Party. With a majority of voters disapproving of the president's handling of these issues, the findings could have significant implications for the 2026 elections and the broader political landscape.