Polls Show Trump Approval Hits Record Low Amid Iran War and Economic Discontent

Key points

• A CNN/SSRS poll found 73% of Americans believe Trump is not paying enough attention to the country’s most important problems, with only 27% agreeing he has the right priorities.
• Trump’s overall approval rating stands at 34%, matching the career low from the end of his first term, while 50% strongly disapprove of his performance.
• Only 28% approve of his handling of the Iran conflict, and 74% report hardship from rising gas prices, up from 63% in March.
• The Economist/YouGov poll recorded a net job approval of -28, a record low, with significant declines among Gen X, white Americans without college degrees, and Independents.
• A Reuters/Ipsos poll showed a slight uptick in approval to 37%, but only 33% support the Iran war, marking the lowest recorded level since the conflict began in February.

Background

In June 2026, a CBS poll indicated 78% of Americans wanted the Iran war to end, reflecting early signs of the broad opposition that has since intensified. Recent polling data from various outlets, including CNN, YouGov, and Reuters/Ipsos, consistently highlight a sharp decline in public support for the administration’s foreign and domestic policies.

How outlets are covering it

CNN emphasizes the breadth of discontent, noting that 73% of Americans feel Trump is ignoring key issues, while The Commercial Appeal highlights a plateau in Tennessee-specific approval ratings. The Economist/YouGov poll focuses on demographic shifts, showing record lows among traditionally supportive groups like white non-college voters and Gen X. Reuters/Ipsos offers a slightly more nuanced view, noting a small increase in overall approval despite deep unpopularity of the Iran war. These differences highlight varying levels of support across regions and demographics, but all agree on the overall downward trend in approval ratings.

Why it matters

The consistent decline in approval ratings across multiple polls signals a significant shift in public sentiment, potentially impacting the administration’s ability to pass legislation and maintain political support. The unpopularity of the Iran war and economic policies could have broader implications for upcoming elections and policy decisions.

What to watch

As the Iran war continues and economic challenges persist, further polling will be crucial to gauge public sentiment. The administration may need to adjust its strategies to address the growing discontent, particularly regarding the war and economic policies. Upcoming elections will likely be influenced by these polling trends, with voters potentially seeking change in leadership.