On June 14, 2025, a significant protest titled “No Kings” took place in Middletown, Pennsylvania. Despite inclement weather, approximately 1,800 participants gathered, organized by Indivisible Bucks County. This event highlighted the rising dissatisfaction among citizens amid turbulent political circumstances.
The year 2025 marked a tumultuous period under President Donald Trump’s second term. By the start of 2026, his approval ratings revealed a divided nation. According to various polls, many Americans express concerns regarding Trump’s handling of the economy, specifically his tariffs and healthcare policies.
Trump’s Approval Ratings Enter 2026
As polls shifted, Trump’s approval ratings reflected his polarizing presence in American politics. A report from The Economist published on January 2, 2026, showed the following ratings:
- Favorable: 39%
- Unfavorable: 56%
- Not sure: 4%
Various organizations have tracked these figures, revealing consistent concerns about economic issues. Voters ranked inflation, jobs, and the economy as their top three issues. Health care also remains a significant concern.
Poll Results Breakdown
Different polling agencies provided similar insights into Trump’s standing across the United States:
- New York Times (Jan. 2, 2026): Favorable: 42%, Unfavorable: 54%
- Civiqs (Jan. 1, 2026): Favorable: 40%, Unfavorable: 56%
- Rasmussen (Dec. 31, 2025): Favorable: 44%, Unfavorable: 56%
- Gallup (Dec. 1–15, 2025): Favorable: 36%, Unfavorable: 59%
These ratings point toward a growing discontent regarding Trump’s governance, particularly as many voters “strongly disapprove” of his actions. In fact, the Rasmussen poll noted that 44% of voters strongly disapprove of Trump’s presidency.
Trump’s Approval Ratings in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, the situation is equally challenging for Trump. As of January 1, 2026, Civiqs indicated a net approval rating of –15%:
- Disapproval: 55%
- Approval: 40%
- No opinion: 5%
Further demographic breakdown shows:
- Age: 67% of those aged 18–34 disapproved, while 49% of those aged 50–64 approved.
- Education: Disapproval rates reached 70% among postgraduates, 57% among college graduates.
- Gender: 60% of women had an unfavorable view, while 49% of men shared this sentiment.
- Party Affiliation: 87% of Republicans approved, while only 2% of Democrats approved.
- Race: 90% of Black voters and 68% of Hispanic voters reported unfavorable views of Trump.
The data illustrates Trump’s steep challenges as he navigates a complex political landscape. As 2026 unfolds, it raises questions about his administration’s future, especially regarding the economy and public approval.
