President Trump Approval Rating Hit New Low
A record low approval rating for the current administration may impact voter sentiment ahead of November elections.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Economic Indicators
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President Donald Trump has reached a 37% approval rating, the lowest recorded for an American president before a midterm election in Wall Street Journal polling since 1990. The survey of 1,500 registered voters reflects the current political climate heading into the November 2026 midterm elections.
Why it matters
Low approval ratings can signal shifting voter priorities and potential changes in legislative momentum, which often influence economic policy debates and household financial expectations. This historical low marks a significant shift in the executive branch standing as the electorate prepares for upcoming contests.
The 37% approval rating is based on a survey of 1,500 registered voters with a margin of error of 2.5 percentage points. This performance is the lowest for any president before a midterm since 1990, falling below the previous low of 39% recorded by George W. Bush.
The players
Donald Trump
The current President of the United States who holds the executive office responsible for setting national economic and regulatory policy.
George W. Bush
A former President of the United States who previously held the record for the lowest pre-midterm approval rating at 39%.
The details
Researchers conducted the poll from September 16 to 21 to gauge national sentiment. By analyzing the responses of 1,500 registered voters, the data provides a snapshot of public confidence in the administration. These figures are often used by observers to assess the potential for legislative shifts that could impact tax policy and government spending in the next cycle.
Timeline
Polling data dates back to 1990.
The poll was conducted from September 16 to 21, 2026.
The midterm election will occur in November 2026.
Money Landscape
This record low sits within the context of the Wall Street Journal polling series that has tracked executive approval since 1990. The figure highlights a period of intense public scrutiny that historically correlates with shifts in political leadership and legislative focus.
Shifts in executive approval can signal incoming changes to fiscal policy and government spending priorities that impact household budgets. Financial decision-makers should monitor policy developments as they relate to tax and benefit programs when deciding on long-term household investments.
The takeaway
Public sentiment surrounding the executive branch remains at a historic low ahead of the November 2026 midterms. Readers may want to review current economic policy proposals and consult with a financial professional regarding how potential legislative changes could affect their personal financial planning.
Further reading
For broader trends affecting national policy, explore Economic Indicators.
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