By James Berreth

Editor in Chief

Donald Trump’s disapproval rating has reached one of the highest levels of his political career, reflecting a convergence of domestic dissatisfaction and international instability. As of early May 2026, major national polling averages show that approximately 62% of Americans disapprove of his job performance, while only about 37% approve, marking a record low point in his second presidency.

This level of disapproval is not driven by a single issue, but rather by a combination of economic strain, controversial foreign policy decisions – particularly the war with Iran – and long-standing political polarization.

One of the most significant contributors to Trump’s declining public standing is the state of the U.S. economy, especially the rising cost of living. Inflation and energy prices have surged in recent months, largely tied to disruptions in global oil markets following the outbreak of war with Iran. In response, gas prices have climbed sharply, and a large majority of Americans now express dissatisfaction with how the administration has handled economic conditions. In some polling, more than 70% disapprove of Trump’s approach to inflation and cost-of-living issues, making the economy the single biggest driver of his high disapproval rating.

Closely tied to these economic concerns is the administration’s decision to engage in military conflict with Iran. The war, which began on Feb. 28th, 2026, has proven deeply unpopular with the American public. Roughly two-thirds of Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of the conflict, and many view the military action as a mistake. Unlike some past conflicts that initially rallied public support, this one has faced skepticism from the outset, particularly because of its economic consequences and unclear long-term objectives.

The Strait of Hormuz has become a focal point in this conflict and a symbol of its broader risks. This narrow waterway is one of the most critical oil transit routes in the world, and disruptions there have immediate global consequences. As tensions escalated, thousands of commercial ships became stranded or unable to safely pass through the strait, further tightening global energy supplies. In response, the Trump administration announced efforts to guide or escort ships through the region as a “humanitarian” measure, though without full military escorts.

While the move was framed as stabilizing global trade, it has also raised concerns about escalation. Iranian officials have warned that U.S. involvement in the strait could violate ceasefire conditions, highlighting the fragile and volatile nature of the situation. For many Americans, this has reinforced perceptions that the administration is engaged in a risky and potentially expanding conflict, further contributing to disapproval.

Beyond economic and foreign policy issues, Trump’s persistently high disapproval rating is also rooted in structural political polarization. His support among Republican voters remains inexplicably strong, often exceeding 80%, but this is offset by overwhelming opposition among Democrats and weak support among independents, where approval has fallen to around 25%. This stark divide leaves little room for broader national consensus and keeps overall disapproval elevated.

Demographic trends further deepen this divide. Younger voters, who once showed some openness to Trump, have increasingly turned against him, citing unmet economic expectations and dissatisfaction with both domestic and foreign policy decisions. At the same time, ongoing controversies, leadership style criticisms, and questions about judgment and decision-making continue to shape negative perceptions among large segments of the electorate.

In sum, Donald Trump’s current disapproval rating – now at roughly 62% – is the result of overlapping pressures rather than a single failing. The economic fallout from the Iran war, the strategic and humanitarian challenges in the Strait of Hormuz, and deeply entrenched political polarization have all combined to create a political environment in which public dissatisfaction is both widespread and persistent.