Trump’s GOP sway persists as overall approval slips, new poll shows

A May 2026 Marquette Law School national poll shows Trump’s overall approval at 38% with weaker ratings on the economy (30%) and inflation (22%), and gas prices (19%). Yet he maintains strong influence in GOP primaries: 71% of Republicans would back a Trump-endorsed candidate, rising to 87% among MAGA supporters, while non-MAGA Republicans tilt toward incumbents he opposed. Independents and Democrats favor the Democrats on economy and inflation, and inflation remains the public’s top issue (37%). The congressional vote among registered voters is nearly even (Democratic 46% vs Republican 45%), with likely voters showing a similar close tilt. The poll, conducted May 20–26, 2026, surveyed 1,001 adults with MOEs around 3–4 points.