As the 2026 elections approach, significant cracks are emerging in Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) base, raising questions about his support within the Republican Party. Recent data from the NBC News Decision Desk Poll, conducted from November 20 to December 8, 2025, reveals notable shifts in approval ratings among American adults.
Declining Approval Ratings
Trump’s approval rating currently stands at 42%, with a disapproval rate of 58%. This marks a decrease of 3 percentage points since April, when his approval was recorded at 45%. The survey included 20,252 participants and has a margin of error of plus or minus 1.9 percentage points.
Concerns about the economy, particularly inflation, are influencing public sentiment. As everyday spending on items like groceries and holiday gifts weighs on Americans, Trump’s image appears to be suffering. The president’s handling of various controversies, particularly related to the Jeffrey Epstein files, has not bolstered his standing with voters.
Shifts Among MAGA Supporters
- Among Republicans, strong approval for Trump has decreased to 35%, down from 38% in April.
- For those who identify with the MAGA movement, strong support has dropped from 78% to 70%.
- There is an increasing divide, with Republicans split on whether they view themselves as traditional party supporters or MAGA members.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, previously a prominent MAGA advocate, publicly distanced herself from Trump, citing concerns over foreign policy overshadowing domestic issues. She has indicated a new alignment with the “America First” movement and plans to resign from Congress early next year.
Economic Concerns Reign Supreme
The economy remains a pressing issue for voters, with 64% believing the country is on the wrong track, up from 60% earlier this year. This sentiment is echoed across various demographic groups, including Trump voters from 2024, older Americans, and racial minorities.
Voter concerns about their personal financial situations have shifted, with 35% reporting worse circumstances than a year ago. This feeling is exacerbated among lower-income earners, with 45% of individuals making less than $50,000 stating their finances are worse today.
Diverse Economic Priorities
Americans demonstrate varied economic priorities based on income level:
- 41% reported their financial situation is unchanged from last year.
- 24% noted improvements, primarily among higher earners.
- Major concerns for those earning under $50,000 include rising housing and food costs.
In contrast, higher-income individuals pointed to health insurance and retirement planning as pressing issues. The economic disparities are illustrated by spending habits, with lower-income groups cutting back on groceries and holiday expenses more significantly than their wealthier counterparts.
Party Trust Ahead of 2026 Elections
Public trust concerning economic management is shifting. A recent poll indicates that 53% of Americans favor the Democratic Party over the Republican Party regarding handling rising living costs. This trend could influence the outcomes of the 2026 elections.
The challenge for Republicans, including Trump, lies in addressing the economic anxiety felt by the voters. As discontent simmers within the MAGA movement, the potential for further fractures and a weakened political front looms large. With the election cycle approaching, the ability to regain the trust of his base will be crucial for Trump’s campaign viability.
