Trump’s Approval Rating on Inflation Hits Record Low, Poll Finds

President Donald Trump’s approval ratings on inflation have decreased significantly since the beginning of this year. According to a recent poll conducted by Strength In Numbers in partnership with Verasight, Trump’s net approval rating on prices and inflation dropped to -47 in May, down from -31 in January.

The survey reveals only 25% of Americans support the president’s handling of inflation and prices, while 72% disapprove. Notably, 57% of these disapprovers stated they “strongly” disapprove. This is happening against a backdrop of ongoing rising costs for essentials like food and gasoline, driven by persistent tensions in the Middle East.

Inflation Emerges as Top Concern for Voters

The survey highlights that a majority of respondents view rising prices as the most critical issue facing the nation. This sentiment reflects broader dissatisfaction with the administration’s economic management. Nationwide gas prices have increased due to the conflict involving Iran, while grocery costs remain elevated despite a slowdown in inflation’s growth compared to previous high points.

White House Defends Trump’s Economic Agenda

White House spokesperson Kush Desai told Newsweek that the American economy has been “resilient under President Trump due to his agenda, which has shown significant results—resulting in historical job, wage, and economic growth during his first term.” Desai further stated that as this agenda further unfolds and Congress supports the president’s initiatives on health care and housing affordability, improvements in economic conditions will continue in Trump’s second term.

Approval Ratings Declining Across Major Policy Areas

The Strength In Numbers/Verasight poll also discovered Trump struggling in almost all key policy areas tested:

• -28 on health care
• -25 on jobs and the economy
• -23 on foreign policy
• -22 on elections and democracy
• -22 on government funding and social programs
• -21 on trade
• -19 on education

Even on issues central to his administration’s platform, he posted negative ratings, including -12 each on deportations, immigration, and crime. Border security was the only issue with evenly divided opinions, with 48% approving and 48% disapproving.

The poll was conducted among 1,529 U.S. adults from May 18 to May 19, with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.7 percentage points.

Trump’s Overall Approval Rating

Throughout 2026, Trump’s overall approval rating has also remained low according to the poll. His net approval ratings were recorded as follows:

• -18 in January
• -22 in February
• -23 in March
• -26 in April
• -23 in May

Other polls suggest eroding support among significant voter groups. The same survey indicated a record low approval among Republicans. Economic perceptions, especially regarding inflation and household expenses, often act as strong indicators of political success leading to elections.

With U.S. midterms on the horizon, ongoing dissatisfaction with prices and affordability could pose an increasing political hurdle for the administration.