President Donald Trump’s approval rating regarding inflation, a crucial issue in his 2024 election victory, has dropped significantly since the start of the year. A recent poll shows a sharp decline in public support.
Poll Results Show Record Low Approval
A survey conducted by Strength In Numbers, in collaboration with Verasight, reveals Trump’s net approval rating on prices and inflation plummeted to -47 in May from -31 in January. This poll indicates that only 25% of Americans approve of Trump’s handling of inflation and prices, while 72% disapprove. Of those, 57% expressed strong disapproval.
The report emerges as Americans confront escalating prices for essentials like food and gasoline, amidst ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Inflation has surfaced as voters’ top concern.
Rising Prices: A Key Concern for Voters
The survey highlights that a majority view rising prices as the country’s most pressing issue. This reflects broader dissatisfaction with the administration’s economic management. Nationwide, gas prices have increased due to the conflict involving Iran, and grocery costs remain high despite a slowdown in inflation growth compared to earlier peaks.
White House Stands by Economic Policies
White House spokesperson Kush Desai defended Trump’s economic strategy, noting its historical success in generating job, wage, and economic growth. Desai stated, “The American economy is resilient under President Trump due to his agenda of tax cuts, deregulation, and tariffs.” He also assured citizens of continued benefits from Trump’s economic policies in his second term.
Approval Ratings Decline Across Policy Areas
The Strength In Numbers/Verasight survey reveals Trump is facing negative approval ratings across almost all major issues:
- -28 on health care
- -25 on jobs and the economy
- -23 on foreign policy
- -22 on elections and democracy
- -22 on government funding and social programs
- -21 on trade
- -19 on education
Even on core administration messages, Trump exhibits negative ratings:
- -12 on deportations
- -12 on immigration
- -12 on crime
For border security, opinions evenly split with 48% approving and 48% disapproving. The survey interviewed 1,529 U.S. adults from May 18 to 19, with a margin of error of ±2.7 percentage points.
Overall Approval Rating Under Pressure
Throughout 2026, Trump’s overall approval rating has also been below water according to the poll. His net approval stood at:
- -18 in January
- -22 in February
- -23 in March
- -26 in April
- -23 in May
Other polls indicate waning support among important voting groups. Economic perceptions, particularly around inflation and household costs, often sharply influence political performance before elections. As the U.S. midterms near, ongoing voter dissatisfaction over prices and affordability could pose significant political challenges for Trump’s administration.