Economic Approval for President Trump Has Dropped

A new poll reveals that only 26 percent of adults approve of the administration's economic management.

Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Economic Indicators

Isometric editorial illustration of a single cast-iron skillet, representing the household financial strain of the current cost of living. — Public approval for President Trump's handling of the economy has fallen to 26 percent, according to a recent AP-NORC poll. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you hold the current administration responsible for the recent increase in your household costs?

A recent AP-NORC poll shows that public approval for President Donald Trump's economic handling has fallen to 26 percent, a 14-point decline since March 2025. This survey highlights growing household concern over the current cost of living.

Why it matters

Rising consumer anxiety, with roughly half of U.S. adults concerned about affording food and gas, underscores the financial strain facing many households. As 65 percent of adults now blame presidential policies for high costs, the administration faces significant headwinds regarding public sentiment.

Only 26 percent of U.S. adults now approve of the administration's economic performance, marking a 14-point decrease since March 2025. Additionally, 65 percent of respondents cite government policy as the primary cause for elevated household costs.

The players

Donald Trump

The current President of the United States who shapes federal fiscal policy and campaign priorities.

JD Vance

The current Vice President of the United States involved in upcoming campaign tour events.

The details

The survey results indicate that persistent inflation continues to weigh on family budgets, with half of U.S. adults expressing concern about their ability to cover food and gas expenses. Disapproval is notably broad, as 6 in 10 Republicans now express dissatisfaction with how President Trump is managing the cost of living. This sentiment aligns with historically low approval markers last seen in June 2022.

March 2025 marked the beginning of President Trump's second term.
October 1, 2026, saw the publication of the AP-NORC poll data.

Money Landscape

The current approval figures follow a pattern set by the June 2022 economic approval ratings under President Biden. This trend illustrates a recurring cycle of voter dissatisfaction during periods of elevated national cost-of-living concerns.

With 65 percent of adults blaming national policies for high costs, households should continue to monitor their own inflation-adjusted spending habits. Always speak with a qualified financial professional to adjust your long-term budget if you are concerned about persistent price increases.

The takeaway

Economic sentiment has reached a low point as household affordability concerns remain a primary driver of public opinion. Tracking the ongoing cost of living in your local market remains the most important step for maintaining individual budget stability.