Trump’s Approval Ratings on Inflation and Key Issues

President Donald Trump’s approval rating on inflation has reached a new low. A recent poll reveals a significant drop since the beginning of the year, marking inflation as a pivotal issue in his 2024 election campaign. Polling data from Strength In Numbers and Verasight shows Trump’s net approval rating on inflation declined to -47 in May, down from -31 in January. Just 25 percent of Americans support his handling of inflation, with a notable 72 percent disapproving, of whom 57 percent express strong disapproval.

Inflation as Top Concern for Voters

The survey highlights that rising prices are the primary concern for most respondents. This reflects broader dissatisfaction with the government’s economic management.

Gas prices have increased due to Middle East tensions, and grocery costs remain high despite a slower inflation rise compared to previous peaks.

White House Defends Economic Strategy

Kush Desai, White House spokesman, emphasized the economy’s resilience under Trump’s leadership. He credits tax cuts, deregulation, and tariffs for past economic gains. Desai urged confidence in upcoming measures on healthcare and housing affordability, signaling future economic improvements.

Decreasing Approval Ratings in Various Areas

The Strength In Numbers/Verasight survey reveals Trump’s declining approval in numerous areas:

• Health Care: -28
• Jobs and Economy: -25
• Foreign Policy: -23
• Elections and Democracy: -22
• Government Funding and Social Programs: -22
• Trade: -21
• Education: -19

Even on core administration issues, negative ratings persisted:

• Deportations, Immigration, Crime: -12 each

On border security, opinions were evenly split with 48 percent for and against.

The poll surveyed 1,529 U.S. adults from May 18 to May 19, with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.7 percentage points.

Overall Approval Ratings for Trump

Throughout 2026, Trump’s overall approval rating remained negative:

• January: -18
• February: -22
• March: -23
• April: -26
• May: -23

Polling indicates waning support within crucial voter groups. Economic perceptions, especially around inflation and living costs, are crucial indicators of political performance, especially as midterm elections approach. Persistent voter dissatisfaction over affordability may pose significant political challenges.