Recent polling has shown a significant decline in public satisfaction with President Donald Trump’s management of the economy. A PBS News/NPR/Marist survey reveals that 57% of Americans disapprove of his economic handling, a stark contrast to previous perceptions of his stewardship in this area. Only 36% of respondents believe Trump is performing well, marking the lowest approval rating for this issue during his presidency.
High Discontent Over Economic Issues
The worsening approval ratings can largely be attributed to escalating concerns about living costs, healthcare prices, and personal finances. The poll indicates that dissatisfaction resonates across various demographics, including nearly half of Republican respondents and 75% of independents. A significant 70% of Americans report that the cost of living is unaffordable in their regions, highlighting the pervasive economic strain felt nationwide.
Financial Struggles Intensify
As economic pressures mount, overall confidence in the future continues to falter. Over half of the surveyed population (57%) express a negative outlook for the coming year, a shift from the more hopeful sentiments felt just a year prior. Price stability has not materialized, leading many to view 2026 with skepticism.
- Cost of living concerns: 70% consider living expenses unaffordable.
- Healthcare affordability: Over 50% worry they cannot pay for necessary healthcare services.
- Financial outlook: 33% see personal finances improving in the next year.
Political Implications Ahead of Midterms
This poll’s insights may prove critical as the midterm elections approach. Registered voters now favor the Democratic Party, with 40% believing Democrats would better handle economic issues compared to 35% for Republicans. This marks a notable shift from September 2022 when Republicans enjoyed a 15-point advantage in economic trust among voters.
Experts suggest that economic dissatisfaction could jeopardize Republican prospects in the upcoming elections. “Affordability issues are now front and center,” said Lee Miringoff, Director of the Marist Institute for Public Opinion, “and they are crucial for voters.” As Democrats emphasize their commitment to tackling these affordability concerns, they appear better positioned than their Republican counterparts.
Public Sentiment on Economic Management
Disapproval rates among Republicans also show troubling signs, as support for Trump has declined by five points since the previous month. Voters like Roger Chester, who previously supported Trump, now express ambivalence regarding his leadership on economic matters, reflecting a broader sentiment of disappointment.
Concerns extend beyond daily living expenses, with many disabled Americans worried about healthcare coverage following expected subsidy expirations. Discontent is voiced across income levels, with lower-income respondents displaying greater unease regarding their ability to afford necessary healthcare services.
Key Takeaways from the Poll
- Current Economic Mood: 57% of Americans attribute economic discontent directly to Trump.
- Future Predictions: 45% list the cost of goods as their primary economic concern.
- Healthcare Assistance: 67% of individuals earning below $50,000 express significant healthcare concerns.
The findings signal a crucial moment for both the Trump administration and the Republican Party as they navigate growing public dissatisfaction with economic management. With 2026 approaching, the focus remains on how effectively these concerns will be addressed in the political arena. The polling was conducted from December 8 to December 11, 2025, involving 1,440 U.S. adults via phone and online, with margins of error at 3.2 and 3.4 percentage points, respectively.
