As the year comes to a close, President Donald Trump’s approval rating shows some resilience but remains below favorability. Recent data indicates his struggles resonate mainly around economic concerns, particularly regarding affordability and the cost of living.
Current Approval Rating Insights
Polling data reflects Trump’s mixed approval ratings as of late December 2025. His ratings have fluctuated, showing a slight rebound from previous lows. On December 23, RealClearPolitics reported a 43% approval rate compared to a 53.6% disapproval rate.
- January 27: 50.5% approval rate.
- March 13: 47.8% approval rate; 48.5% disapproval.
- April 29: Dropped to 45.1%, coinciding with the 100-day mark.
- November 14: Lowest approval at 42.3%, aggravated by the Epstein controversy.
- November 21: Disapproval peaked at 55.6%.
Polls and Voter Sentiment
The New York Times aggregator recorded a drop from 52% approval in January to 44% in April. By December 23, it reported a 42% approval rate with a 54% disapproval rate, indicating an ongoing struggle for Trump.
Additionally, a Morning Consult poll conducted between December 19-21 surveyed 2,203 registered voters. It showed Trump with a 45% approval rating, a drop of one point from the previous week, while his disapproval remained steady at 52%.
The Economic Focus of Voters
According to the Morning Consult survey, voters expressed a strong desire for Trump to prioritize economic issues, particularly in terms of lowering prices. However, many respondents felt that he had not focused enough on these concerns.
Gallup Poll Findings
A Gallup poll released on December 22 revealed Trump’s December approval rating at just 36%, supported primarily by 89% of Republican respondents. Among independents, his approval fell to 25%, while only 3% of Democrats viewed him favorably. This rating reflects a consistency with previous months, as it stands slightly above his all-time low of 34% in January 2021.
Historical Context of Trump’s Approval Ratings
When compared to previous presidents, Trump’s approval ratings in December are notably lower than their counterparts in similar timelines. Here’s how Trump’s December ratings compare with other presidents:
| President | Approval Rating | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Joe Biden | 43% | 2021 |
| Donald Trump | 36% | 2017 |
| Barack Obama | 50% | 2009 |
| George W. Bush | 86% | 2001 |
| Bill Clinton | 53% | 1993 |
| George H.W. Bush | 71% | 1989 |
| Ronald Reagan | 49% | 1981 |
As the January 2026 midterms approach, these shifting approval ratings could significantly impact Trump’s political prospects and the Republican Party’s standing in Congress.
