Gallup Ends Presidential Approval Polling After 80 Years

The public opinion polling agency says it is shifting its focus, but critics argue this is a mistake that will impact leaders and voters.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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After over 80 years of publishing presidential approval ratings, the Gallup polling organization has announced it will be discontinuing this long-running metric. Gallup cited an 'evolution' in its research priorities as the reason for this change, but the decision has drawn criticism from those who argue it will remove an important barometer of public sentiment towards political leaders.

Why it matters

Gallup's presidential approval ratings have long been used by media outlets, political parties, and the public as a key indicator of how the American people view the performance of the president. Ending this data point will remove a valuable tool for holding leaders accountable and understanding the electorate's judgment of those in power.

The details

Gallup confirmed to The Hill that it will stop publishing approval and favorability ratings of individual political figures starting this year. The company said this 'reflects an evolution in how Gallup focuses its public research and thought leadership.' However, critics argue this is a step backwards, as the poll numbers have served an important purpose in reminding presidents that they are ultimately accountable to the people.

  • Gallup has published presidential approval ratings for around 80 years.
  • Gallup's last published presidential approval poll was in December 2025.

The players

Gallup

A public opinion polling agency that has measured presidential approval ratings for decades.

The Hill

A political news outlet that reported on Gallup's decision to end its presidential approval polling.

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The takeaway

Gallup's decision to discontinue its long-running presidential approval polling removes an important metric that has provided valuable insight into how the American public views its political leaders. This change raises concerns that it will diminish accountability and transparency around the performance of the presidency.