Donald Trump's popularity has plummeted to historic lows, with his approval rating falling to figures unseen in over seven decades for a sitting president ahead of midterm elections. With fears about the economy mounting and political chaos dominating headlines, the president faces a precarious road to maintaining Republican majorities in Congress.
Recentpollingfrom AP/NORC, Gallup, and Quinnipiac University show Trump's approval hovering around 36 to 37 per cent. If these numbers persist, it would mark the lowest approval rating of any president in a midterm year since Harry Truman in 1946.
The figures paint a grim picture for the GOP. Historically, low presidential approval ratings translate into losses for the president's party during midterms. For example, Truman's 33 per cent approval preceded a staggering 55-seat House loss for Democrats, while George W. Bush lost 30 Republican seats with a 38 per cent approval rating in 2006.
Analysts warn that Trump's continued unpopularity could spell significant setbacks for Republicans hoping to maintain control of both chambers of Congress.
Political analysts link Trump's slump togrowing concerns over the economy, immigration issues, and ongoing political controversies.CNNdata analyst Harry Enten warned that Trump may have 'fallen through the floor' in terms of support, noting that even his base appears less motivated than in previous campaigns.
'There is a serious question about where Trump's floor is,' Enten told CNN. 'Right now, his political brand is entering the 2026 campaign season at its weakest point in years.'
Compared to Joe Biden at the same point in his presidency, Trump is trailing by several points, underscoring the depth of his current unpopularity.
Although Trump will not appear on the ballot, his influence on Republican fortunes remains significant. Speaking at a House Republicans' retreat, he warned that poor midterm results could have serious personal repercussions.
'You got to win the midterms because if we don't win, it's just going to be — they'll find a reason to impeach me,' Trump said, referencing his two previous impeachments during his first term. The comment underscores the intertwining of Trump's personal political survival with the broader Republican strategy ahead of November.
Political observers note that Trump's warning is not just rhetoric. His supporters and opponents alike recognise that midterm losses could weaken his grip on the party and diminish his influence over key policy decisions. Members of Congress often take cues from the president's popularity, and historically, low approval ratings have translated into diminished legislative effectiveness and internal party tensions.
Source: International Business Times UK
