Trump's Approval Rating Hits New Low on Key Issues

Dissatisfaction grows over economy and immigration as midterms approach

Mar. 12, 2026 at 1:23pm

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President Donald Trump's approval ratings on immigration and the economy have sunk to new second-term lows, according to the latest NPR/PBS News/Marist poll. The president's overall job approval remains underwater, with 38% approving and 57% disapproving. The numbers point to mounting dissatisfaction during Trump's second term as voters weigh economic pressures, immigration policy and election concerns.

Why it matters

With midterms approaching, sustained weakness on core issues like the economy and immigration could shape turnout and control of Congress. The poll also shows widespread concern about the direction of the country and doubts about the integrity of upcoming elections.

The details

Trump's approval ratings on immigration and the economy have fallen to their lowest recorded levels of his second term. On immigration, disapproval now outweighs approval by a net 17 points, while on the economy the gap is even wider at minus 23. Just 35% of respondents approved of Trump's handling of the economy, the weakest rating yet recorded in these polls.

  • The NPR/PBS News/Marist poll was conducted from March 2 through March 4, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States, currently serving his second term.

Harry Enten

CNN chief data analyst.

Brett Lloyd

A polling and research specialist for the Independent Center.

Davis Ingle

A White House spokesperson.

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What they’re saying

“Trump and GOP have a big freaking problem!”

— Harry Enten, CNN chief data analyst

“Polls capture a snapshot of a moment, but they miss the cumulative fatigue. They miss the 'quiet' independent who has checked out of political news entirely because they're too busy working two jobs. A poll tells you who they'd vote for if they had to; it doesn't tell you how many of them are planning to just stay home because they feel ignored by both sides.”

— Brett Lloyd, polling and research specialist for the Independent Center

“According to the RealClearPolitics average, President Trump is enjoying a higher approval rating than former Presidents Obama and Bush at this point in their second term, with much more hostile media coverage.”

— Davis Ingle, White House spokesperson

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This poll highlights the challenges facing President Trump and the Republican Party as they head into the midterm elections, with voters expressing growing dissatisfaction over the economy and immigration issues. The results could shape the political landscape and control of Congress in the coming months.