New Poll Signals Deep Economic Concern as Trump Faces Record-High Disapproval Ratings
A new national poll highlighted on CNN is drawing serious attention to growing public dissatisfaction with former President Donald Trump, particularly on key economic issues. According to the latest data analysis presented by CNN’s polling expert Harry Enten, Trump is currently facing some of the highest disapproval ratings ever recorded at this stage of a presidency, especially when it comes to inflation, gas prices, and overall economic management.
The report describes the situation as highly concerning, with numbers suggesting that public frustration over rising costs is intensifying. Inflation appears to be one of the biggest challenges. At this point in his term, Trump’s disapproval rating on inflation has reached 72 percent. When compared historically, this places him in a more difficult position than both Joe Biden and Jimmy Carter, who recorded disapproval ratings of 68 percent and 66 percent respectively during similar periods marked by economic pressure.
The data also reflects strong public reaction to rising fuel costs. Gas prices recently climbed to an average of $4 per gallon nationwide, marking the highest level seen since mid-2022. While fuel prices were previously elevated during Biden’s administration, analysts point out that the speed of the recent increase under Trump has been unusually sharp. Over the past month alone, prices have surged by roughly $1 per gallon, representing one of the steepest increases recorded since 1991.
This rapid rise is clearly being felt by households across the country. According to the poll, 63 percent of Americans say higher gas prices are causing financial strain, with 15 percent describing the situation as severe. Only 24 percent of respondents approve of Trump’s handling of gas prices, while a significant 76 percent express disapproval. These figures suggest that fuel costs have become a central issue affecting public perception of economic leadership.
Beyond fuel and inflation, the broader economic outlook is also weighing heavily on public opinion. Around 40 percent of Americans identified the economy, job conditions, and the cost of living as the most important issues currently facing the country. Among them, a smaller but notable portion specifically pointed to gas prices as their primary concern.
The overall economic approval rating for Trump reflects this broader dissatisfaction. Just 31 percent of those surveyed said they approve of his handling of the economy, while 69 percent disapprove. This marks the lowest economic approval level recorded for Trump across both of his terms.
When compared to past presidents, the numbers become even more striking. Former President George W. Bush had an average economic disapproval rating of 57 percent, while Barack Obama stood at 56 percent during comparable periods. Trump’s current 69 percent disapproval rating places him significantly higher than both, indicating a deeper level of public concern.
The data suggests that the combination of inflation and rapidly rising gas prices is creating a compounded effect on public opinion. Economic pressure is not coming from a single issue but from multiple directions at once, making it more difficult for the administration to regain public confidence.
As the situation develops, these numbers will likely remain a key focus in political and economic discussions. Public sentiment around everyday costs continues to shape the national conversation, and current polling indicates that many Americans are feeling the impact directly in their daily lives.
Sources:
CNN Poll (CNN/SSRS)
