Trump's economic approval hits 26%, matching Biden's 2022 lows

Key points

• 26% of voters approve of Trump's economic handling, a fresh low that rivals Biden's 28% approval in mid-2022.
• 65% of adults blame Trump's policies for higher-than-usual prices, compared to 44% who blamed Biden in 2022.
• 69% of the public says Trump's handling of the cost of living has been worse than expected, including 52% of Republicans.
• 46% of adults say their families are worse off since the start of Trump's second administration in 2025.
• 73% of Americans say the country is heading in the wrong direction, including 47% of Republicans.
• 68% disapprove of Trump's trade negotiations, and 64% say his imposition of new tariffs has gone too far.

Background

Recent polls in September 2026 have consistently shown a decline in Trump's approval ratings. A Marquette poll in September found his approval at 37%, a second-term low, while a CNN analysis highlighted a 31-point net approval deficit. Earlier polls also indicated that 43% of Americans blamed Trump for the economy, compared to 28% for Biden, with affordability remaining the top issue for 52% of respondents.

How outlets are covering it

Axios highlights the stark comparison between Trump's current 26% economic approval and Biden's 28% low in 2022, noting that while the economy is not objectively weak, voters feel the pain of high prices. AP-NORC provides broader context, showing that 65% blame Trump for prices, but also notes that 67% of Republicans believe prices are due to factors beyond his control. Yahoo's headline emphasizes the 69% disapproval rating as an all-time high, though the source text appears to be a technical error page rather than a news article, so its specific claims are not verified. The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the poll.

Why it matters

With midterm elections in 33 days, these poll numbers suggest that voters are judging Trump's economic performance harshly, potentially impacting the GOP's chances. The disconnect between stable macroeconomic indicators and voter perception of high prices could be a key factor in the election outcome.

What to watch

The midterm elections are scheduled in 33 days, where voters will pass judgment on Trump's economic efforts. The White House may issue a response to the poll findings, and the administration may attempt to shift the narrative on trade and foreign policy.