President Donald Trump has seen an 8-point dip in net approval ratings among Republicans, according to a Financial Times/Focaldata poll. This change comes amidst growing frustration with the economy and rising cost of living among GOP supporters. The survey, involving 1,913 registered voters, revealed that 53% feel financially worse off since Trump’s return to the presidency in January 2025. This includes 57% of independents and nearly a quarter of Republicans.
Midterm Elections Pressure
The findings precede the upcoming midterm elections. Republicans are aiming to defend congressional majorities, while the White House emphasizes Trump’s economic achievements. Nevertheless, 55% disapprove of Trump’s performance. Among Republicans, net approval ratings dropped 8 percentage points from last month. Voters expressed a preference for Democrats on issues like inflation and economic management, traditionally seen as GOP strengths. The poll’s margin of error stands at ±2.9 percentage points.
Persistent Economic Concerns
Economic issues remain pivotal as November approaches, with polls increasingly showing discontent over inflation and economic conditions. A July Pew Research Center poll indicated that 28% of Republicans feel Trump’s policies worsened economic conditions, a rise from 18% in January. Moreover, 19% anticipate further economic decline over the next year. Despite this, 69% approve of Trump’s performance. Dissatisfaction over prices is highlighted in the YouGov/Economist survey, which shows only 30% approving of Trump’s economic management, while 65% disapprove. The Financial Times/Focaldata poll aligns with these concerns, indicating that 64% disapprove of his handling of inflation and living costs, including a significant portion of independents and Republicans.
Republican Critique on Trump’s Communication
On CBS News’ Face the Nation, Representative Don Bacon expressed concerns over Trump’s economic messaging. Bacon criticized the President for inadequately addressing voter financial struggles. He stated, “He makes light of the affordability question,” highlighting ongoing affordability issues felt by Americans. Bacon also criticized Trump’s tariff policies, which he argues exacerbate consumer prices.
Trump’s call for patience amid higher fuel costs tied to conflict with Iran further complicates his economic stance. At a previous rally, Trump cited the efforts to stop Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons as justification for rising costs, asserting he would not apologize for these decisions.
White House Response
Kush Desai, White House spokesman, countered the poll’s bleak portrayal by emphasizing achievements like reduced drug prices, tax cuts, and job reshoring as part of Trump’s affordability agenda. Desai also noted inherited challenges from President Joe Biden’s term, advocating the success of Trump’s policies.
The Financial Times/Focaldata poll shows Democrats maintaining a slight lead with a 44% to 39% margin in support for the midterms. Given current economic concerns, Republicans confront the challenge of defending Trump’s record while addressing voters’ affordability issues.
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