Economic discontent dents Trump’s grip and GOP midterm hopes

A CNN/SSRS poll shows broad economic unhappiness shaping views of President Trump and Republicans ahead of the 2026 midterms: 77% say Trump’s policies have raised the cost of living and his economy approval sits at a career-low of 30%. Democrats are trusted more than Republicans on key economic issues, though many Americans distrust both parties. The generic-ballot race is close (45% Democrat, 42% Republican), with independents especially persuadable on the economy. While 55% say the economy is the top issue, 57% say there are other issues that matter at least as much.