President Donald Trump’s approval rating among white voters has reached its lowest level since the start of his second term, according to the latest Economist/YouGov poll. The survey highlights growing dissatisfaction, even within one of his strongest voter bases, signaling possible political challenges ahead.
The data shows that a majority of Americans currently disapprove of how Trump is handling major national issues such as inflation, the economy, and immigration. These concerns appear to cut across demographics, with widespread unease over the impact of the government shutdown and recent policy decisions.
Experts suggest that factors like inflation, economic uncertainty, and controversial projects, including the White House East Wing renovation, have contributed to the downturn. With midterm elections approaching, changes in voter opinion could play a crucial role in shaping Republican prospects for the year ahead.
Approval Rating Overview
| Category | Approve (%) | Disapprove (%) | Net Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| White voters | 47 | 50 | -3 |
| Overall adults | 39 | 58 | -19 |
The poll reveals that only 47% of white voters approve of Trump’s performance, while 50% disapprove, giving him a net rating of -3 points among white voters. Nationally, his overall approval stands at 39%, the lowest since his return to office in January, compared with 58% disapproval.
YouGov’s Allen Houston noted that this figure marks Trump’s weakest standing in any Economist/YouGov poll during his second term and among the lowest compared to his first term.
Public Sentiment on Key Issues
The survey indicates that a larger number of Americans disapprove than approve of the President’s approach to core issues:
- Economy and jobs: Net approval -22
- Inflation: Net approval -31
- Immigration: Net approval -10
A significant share of respondents also expressed disapproval over Trump’s recent decision to demolish the East Wing of the White House to build a $300 million ballroom. Overall, 61% of Americans opposed the move, while only 25% supported it. Among white voters, 57% disapproved and 30% approved.
Expert Opinions
Peter Loge of George Washington University explained that Trump’s declining approval ratings follow a broader pattern seen across demographic groups. He attributed the dissatisfaction to economic pressures, inflation, and low confidence in the presidency.
Grant Reeher from Syracuse University added that multiple factors may be contributing, including the ongoing government shutdown, trade tensions, and mixed reactions to immigration enforcement. He also pointed out that negative publicity surrounding issues like the White House reconstruction could be further eroding public trust.
Presidential Response
Despite the poll numbers, President Trump stated during a press briefing aboard Air Force One that he had “his best numbers ever.” His administration maintains that current challenges are temporary and that economic and policy outcomes will improve over time.
With ongoing issues such as the government shutdown and inflation still affecting Americans, Trump’s approval ratings may continue to shift in the coming months. The changing mood among white voters—historically his strongest base—could have important implications as the 2026 midterm elections approach.
