Declining Approval Ratings
President Donald Trump’s approval rating concerning inflation has significantly dropped, reaching a low point in 2026. Strength In Numbers, in collaboration with Verasight, released a survey indicating a net approval rating of -47 in May, a stark decline from -31 in January. The survey results show that only 25% of Americans approve of Trump’s handling of inflation, while 72% disapprove, with 57% expressing strong disapproval.
Inflation Concerns Voters
Many respondents in the survey cited rising prices as the foremost issue facing the nation. There is increasing dissatisfaction with the administration’s economic strategies, especially as essential costs like food and gasoline continue to impact Americans. The current Middle East tensions have further exacerbated the situation, affecting gas prices and sustaining high grocery costs, even as inflation growth slows.
White House Response
White House spokesman Kush Desai defended Trump’s economic policies, stating that the American economy’s resilience is a result of Trump’s proven agenda of tax cuts, deregulation, and tariffs, which had previously resulted in significant growth. Desai expressed confidence that continued implementation of these policies, along with healthcare and housing efforts, would yield positive outcomes during Trump’s second term.
Approval Across Major Issues
The survey highlights Trump’s negative approval ratings across numerous policy areas:
- Health care: -28
- Jobs and the economy: -25
- Foreign policy: -23
- Elections and democracy: -22
- Government funding and social programs: -22
- Trade: -21
- Education: -19
Even in areas central to Trump’s messaging, such as deportations, immigration, and crime, he scored a -12 rating. Border security opinions were evenly split with 48% approving and 48% disapproving. The survey, involving 1,529 U.S. adults, was conducted between May 18 and May 19, with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.7 percentage points.
Overall Approval Trends
Trump’s overall approval has stayed consistently negative throughout 2026:
- January: -18
- February: -22
- March: -23
- April: -26
- May: -23
Polling highlights decreasing support among key voter groups, with Republican approval reaching a record low. Given that economic perceptions heavily influence political performance, especially regarding inflation and household costs, the administration faces challenges ahead of the midterm elections. Continued voter dissatisfaction on prices and affordability remains a potential political hurdle.
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