President Donald Trump’s approval rating has hit a record low during his second term, matching his previous lowest ever rating as commander in chief. According to a new Reuters/Ipsos poll, only 33% of those surveyed approve of Trump’s performance in office, down from 35% the previous week. The poll, which included 1,166 respondents, showed 64% disapproving of his job performance.
Previously, Trump had recorded a 33% approval rating in December 2017 during his first term.
President Donald Trump arrives to deliver remarks at the David S. Mack Center for Training and Intelligence on August 14, 2026, in Garden City, N.Y.
In parallel, 80% of survey respondents expressed the belief that the war in Iran will continue for a long time. The conflict, started in February, was described as a mission to eliminate Iran’s nuclear weapons program. Complications have arisen due to Iran’s attempts to dominate the Strait of Hormuz, through which one fifth of the world’s oil supply passes.
As the war progressed, national average gas prices rose from just below $3 per gallon to slightly over $4 per gallon, according to American Automobile Association (AAA) data. During a New York rally with law enforcement, where Trump promoted record low crime rates, he defended the rise in gas prices, asserting that paying more was justified and that he made the right decision.
Inflation has also seen an increase since the war began. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported year-over-year inflation at 2.4% in February, now sitting at 3.4%.
Trump has undertaken significant initiatives such as major middle-class tax cuts, reducing prescription drug prices, securing borders, lowering violent crime rates, and promoting energy advancements, resulting in record-high 401(k) returns for Americans.
The White House, via spokesperson Olivia Wales, commented that Trump is committed to correcting issues attributed to his predecessor, Joe Biden, emphasizing the nation’s current strength.
Economic pain and affordability concerns have been leverage points for Democrats aiming to regain control of the House and Senate in the upcoming elections. Only 35% of Americans support the war, according to the Reuters/Ipsos poll.
While the White House did not specify a timeline for ending the war, discussions continue around measures such as the proposed gas tax holiday amidst rising prices due to the conflict.