WASHINGTON (AP) — A recent AP-NORC poll reveals shifts in Republican support for President Donald Trump, particularly in his economic policies. About 60% of Republicans approve of Trump’s handling of the economy, a decrease from 80% before the conflict with Iran began. Despite economic dissatisfaction, Republicans largely continue to back Trump.
Gasoline prices have increased as the U.S. and Iran strive for a ceasefire. Trump’s influence within the GOP stayed robust as his chosen candidate triumphed over Rep. Thomas Massie, a critic, in a primary election. The poll indicates strong support for Trump among Republicans, despite growing discontent over economic issues.
Ariel Gutierrez, a Republican from Wisconsin, helps his teenage children with gas costs due to rising prices, citing Trump’s policies as a factor.
Outside his core supporters, Trump remains unpopular. His approval rating stands at 37%, slightly higher than last month. Most Americans disapprove of Trump’s approach to Iran and foreign policy, with nearly all Democrats and 70% of independents criticizing his presidency.
Economic Concerns
Only one-third of U.S. adults support Trump’s economic management, consistent with an April poll but lower than early in his second term when 40% approved. Economic management was a strong point during Trump’s first term. However, skepticism has grown since his reentrance to the White House last year. Economic approval among Republicans dropped to 63% from 79% in February, before the Iran conflict escalated.
Richard Baumgartner, a Republican from Las Vegas, considers higher costs a necessary consequence of war.
Baumgartner stated, “Temporary price increases—it’s unfortunate, but it’s something that has to be confronted.” He expects economic stability once the situation in Iran resolves.
Immigration Policies
Immigration is becoming a beneficial issue for Trump. Early in his second term, Trump’s strict immigration enforcement gained support, although approval dipped to 38% following fatal shootings in Minneapolis. Recently, approval improved to 45%.
Brenda Theiss, an independent from Alabama, commends Trump for border enforcement.
Saying, “I liked Obama… but Trump was the only one that did something,” highlighting Trump’s shift towards quieter enforcement strategies.
Foreign Policy Challenges
Trump’s handling of the Iran conflict is unpopular, with only one-third of adults approving his approach. AP-NORC findings show younger Republicans more likely to disapprove than older counterparts.
Similarly, Trump’s foreign policy receives low support, despite targeting international issues aggressively, including actions against Venezuela and Cuba.
Amanda Wylie, from Georgia, disagrees with Trump’s Iran strategy due to resource concerns.
Wylie, identifying as Republican-leaning, prioritizes American resource allocation over preventing Iran’s nuclear weaponry.
The AP-NORC poll involved 1,117 adults from May 14-18 via NORC’s AmeriSpeak Panel. The margin of error for adults overall is ±3.8 percentage points.
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