Trump's Approval Rating Sinks to Lowest Point of His Second Term

NBC News poll finds steep drops in support for the president's performance on the economy and the war in Iran.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 5:34pm

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A quiet, cinematic painting of an empty government office space with warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of political disillusionment and disconnect.As public approval of the president's performance sinks, the political landscape appears increasingly bleak and uncertain.Syracuse Today

According to an NBC News poll, President Donald Trump's approval ratings have dropped to their lowest level since the start of his second term, with only 37% of adults approving of his work as president. The poll found significant disapproval of Trump's handling of inflation and the cost of living, as well as his war campaign in Iran. The results suggest Trump is beginning to lose support even among Republicans.

Why it matters

With midterm elections coming up this fall, continuous drops in Trump's approval ratings could impact key races across the country if Americans see them as a referendum on the failures of his administration.

The details

The NBC News poll found that 63% of adults disapprove of Trump's performance, including 50% who disapprove strongly. This includes 52% who 'strongly disapprove' and 16% who 'somewhat disapprove' of Trump's handling of inflation and the cost of living. The poll also found that overall support for the president dropped by four percentage points (from 87% to 83%) among Republicans in just two months. Additionally, approximately two-thirds of Americans disapprove of Trump's war campaign in Iran.

  • The NBC News poll was conducted over two weeks in March and April 2026.
  • When NBC News asked the same inflation question to Americans last August, 45% noted they 'strongly disapprove'—seven percentage points lower than this month's results.
  • The agreement for a two-week ceasefire with Iran is set to expire this week.

The players

Donald Trump

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

Greg Bovino

Former Border Patrol commander-at-large, removed by Trump in late January.

Kristi Noem

Former DHS secretary, removed by Trump in March.

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The takeaway

This poll highlights the growing discontent with President Trump's leadership, particularly on economic issues like inflation and the cost of living. As his approval ratings continue to decline, it could have significant implications for the upcoming midterm elections and the future of his administration.