A new poll reveals that Donald Trump's approval rating has fallen to 30%, the lowest recorded during his second term, as confidence in the economy plummets even among his supporters. The survey, conducted by the American Research Group between June 16 and June 20, 2026, found that 66% of Americans disapprove of Trump's performance, while only 30% approve. Among those who approve, just 13% believe the economy will improve over the next year, a dramatic drop from 46% in February 2025.
Economic pessimism widespread
Only 26% of Americans approve of Trump's handling of the economy, with 70% disapproving. This compares unfavorably to a 41% economic approval rating in June 2018 during his first term. Just 6% of respondents think the economy is getting better, while 73% say it is getting worse. Looking ahead, only 7% expect improvement in the next 12 months, and 75% anticipate further deterioration.
Personal financial assessments are equally bleak: nearly 70% of Americans describe their financial situation as bad, very bad, or terrible. Additionally, 73% say their household finances are worsening, and 68% expect to be worse off a year from now. A striking 65% believe the US is already in a recession, compared to 19% who disagree.
Supporters' confidence erodes
The most telling figures come from Trump's own base. Among those who approve of Trump, only 13% expect economic improvement under him in the next year, while 59% think it will get worse. This shift does not indicate a mass defection from Trump but highlights a significant erosion of confidence in his economic stewardship. The White House downplayed the findings, with spokesman Davis Ingle stating that the 'ultimate poll' was the 2024 election, where Trump received nearly 80 million votes, and that the administration's policies are 'just the beginning.'
Broader polling context
While the American Research Group survey places Trump at 30%, other national trackers show slightly higher numbers. The New York Times polling average puts Trump at 39% approval and 59% disapproval, while CNN's average of major surveys shows 37% approval and 61% disapproval. Reuters/Ipsos, AP-NORC, YouGov, and others report similar patterns. Despite variations, the consensus is clear: significantly more Americans disapprove than approve of Trump's performance, and economic confidence is at a low point across the board.
