President Donald Trump’s net approval rating has reached its highest point in nearly five months, as reported by the most recent RMG Research Poll. Despite facing numerous political obstacles, the poll shows Trump’s net approval at -6 percent, which is the most favorable reading recorded by the pollster since the survey conducted from February 28 to March 4. This suggests a modest improvement in public opinion towards the president even amid a turbulent political environment.

Trump’s overall standing, however, continues to be scrutinized due to challenges on several critical issues. Although his approval rating has seen some recovery, voters remain dissatisfied with his handling of economic matters and inflation. These areas consistently rank as top concerns for the public. Recent polls have indicated weak ratings for Trump’s economic management, demonstrating that the improvement in overall approval hasn’t translated into broad confidence regarding his economic leadership.

White House spokesman Davis Ingle communicated via email to Newsweek his support for the president: “No other President in history has accomplished more for the American people than President Trump, who is working tirelessly to create jobs, cool inflation, increase housing affordability, and more. The President has already made historic progress not only in America but around the world, and this is just the beginning as his agenda continues taking effect.”

The political landscape has also been influenced by ongoing international tensions. The conflict with Iran, nearing five months, remains a significant foreign policy challenge, keeping national security at the forefront of public attention. Nate Silver, a polling expert, noted on Thursday that such international crises can alter presidential approval ratings, though current polling on Iran is largely negative.

Affordability continues to be a pressing concern for Americans as both major parties prepare for November’s midterm elections. Alongside the ongoing war, national gas prices have climbed above $4 per gallon, adding financial pressure on households nationwide.

The latest numbers provide a mixed outlook for the president’s standing. Whether this signals the start of a sustained improvement or merely a temporary rebound will likely hinge upon developments in the economy, inflation, and the trajectory of the war.

This week, the White House introduced new tariffs impacting imports from various countries. This decision comes amid voter concerns over affordability and inflation. While the administration claims that the tariffs aim to combat forced labor and bolster U.S. trade policy, critics fear they might further increase consumer prices.

David Axelrod, former adviser to President Barack Obama, addressed these developments, cautioning Republicans on Thursday via X: “Most folks who watch this stuff would tell you that the two most politically costly decisions @POTUS has made were tariffs and the war in Iran. Now he is doubling down on both. Republican candidates, who will pay the price, must be scratching their heads.”

Polling Insights

The RMG Research poll indicates that Trump’s approval rating stands at 46 percent, with disapproval at 52 percent. This poll was conducted from July 13 to July 21 with 2,000 registered voters, having a margin of error of plus or minus 2.2 percentage points.

A separate survey from The Economist/YouGov reveals an approval rating of 36 percent for Trump and disapproval at 60 percent. Conducted from July 17 to July 20 among 1,602 U.S. adults, this poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.3 percentage points.

Fox News Poll results show Trump’s approval at 39 percent versus a disapproval rating of 61 percent. This survey was conducted from July 17 to July 20 among 1,003 registered voters, with a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.

Finally, an American Research Group poll reports Trump’s approval at 30 percent, disapproval at 67 percent, and 3 percent undecided. This poll took place from July 16 to July 20 among 1,100 U.S. adults, with a margin of error of plus or minus 3 percentage points.

To contact Newsweek editors about this story, reach out to Anna Commander and Dave Siminoff.