Public Opinion Shifts as New Survey Shows Declining Approval for Donald Trump Amid Economic Concerns
President Donald Trump is facing a noticeable decline in public approval, according to a newly released national survey that highlights growing voter concerns over the economy, inflation, and overall cost of living in the United States.
The Fox News poll, conducted between May 15 and May 18 among 1,002 registered voters, indicates that 39% of Americans approve of Trump’s overall job performance, while 61% disapprove. This marks a significant gap, with disapproval reaching one of its highest recorded levels in recent polling trends.
A major focus of public concern in the survey is the rising cost of living. About 58% of respondents identified affordability as their most important economic issue, reflecting an increase compared to earlier in the year. This concern now outweighs other financial topics such as government spending and deficit control, job creation, tariffs, income inequality, and taxation.
The poll also highlights growing anxiety over fuel prices. A large majority of participants, 86%, described gas prices as a serious issue, while an even higher 96% believe they negatively impact the broader economy. These concerns are being shaped in part by global tensions, including ongoing conflict involving Iran, which has contributed to uncertainty in energy markets.
Public sentiment regarding the overall economy remains largely negative. According to the survey, 77% of Americans believe the economy is in poor condition, and 73% say it has worsened in just the past month. Additionally, 51% of respondents feel their personal financial situation has declined over the last two years, showing a widespread perception of financial pressure among households.
Trump’s performance ratings vary significantly across key policy areas. His strongest area, border security, is nearly evenly split with 49% approval and 51% disapproval, showing a decline from earlier positive trends. Other areas reflect deeper dissatisfaction: foreign policy stands at 38% approval versus 62% disapproval, the economy at 29% approval versus 71% disapproval, and inflation at 24% approval versus 76% disapproval, marking his lowest rating on any issue measured in the poll. Even his handling of relations with China received mixed feedback, with 45% approval and 54% disapproval.
The survey also suggests a shift in support among traditional voter groups. Approval ratings among Republicans remain relatively strong at 80%, but declines are visible among non-MAGA Republicans, white voters, and rural voters, all of whom show lower levels of support compared to previous measurements. Analysts behind the poll note that independent voters and some core Republican groups are showing signs of reduced confidence.
Republican pollster Daron Shaw, who helps conduct the survey, observed that economic concerns—especially affordability—are playing a central role in shaping voter sentiment. He noted that while Trump continues to retain strong support within parts of the Republican base, shifts among independents and other groups are contributing to the overall decline in approval numbers.
The survey also explored public opinion on U.S. foreign involvement, particularly regarding Iran. Around two-thirds of Americans believe the United States is currently gaining advantage in its stance toward Tehran. However, support for military involvement remains divided, with 40% in favor of action and 60% opposed, indicating strong hesitation among voters about direct military engagement.
Overall, the findings reflect a political environment where economic pressure is heavily influencing public opinion, and where approval ratings are increasingly shaped by concerns over daily living costs and financial stability.
Sources:
Fox News Poll (May 15–May 18, 2026), Survey of 1,002 Registered Voters.
