President Donald Trump’s net approval rating has increased to its highest in nearly five months, based on the latest RMG Research Poll. Despite facing significant political challenges, Trump’s net approval stands at -6 percent. This marks the best recorded reading since the February 28 to March 4 survey, indicating a modest improvement in public perception.
The improvement comes amidst pressures on Trump’s administration over several key issues. Although his overall approval has improved, dissatisfaction persists regarding his handling of the economy and inflation. Economic ratings remain weak, showing the increase in overall approval has not led to confidence in his economic approach.
White House spokesman Davis Ingle stated in an email to Newsweek: “No other President has accomplished more for the American people than President Trump. He is working to create jobs, manage inflation, increase housing affordability, and more. The President has made historic progress both domestically and internationally.”
Current Political Climate
The political backdrop is influenced by ongoing international tensions. The war with Iran, nearing its fifth month, continues as a foreign policy challenge, keeping national security in public focus. Historically, international crises impact presidential approval ratings, although polling on Iran remains negative, according to polling expert Nate Silver.
Affordability is a significant concern as both major parties prepare for the November midterm elections. National average gas prices have exceeded $4 per gallon, adding financial strain on households.
The latest figures provide a mixed view of the president’s standing. Longer-term improvement will depend on developments in the economy, inflation, and war trajectory.
Economic Measures and Political Reactions
This week, the White House introduced new tariffs affecting imports from various countries, aimed at combating forced labor and strengthening U.S. trade policy. Critics argue these tariffs might further pressure consumer prices amid ongoing concerns over inflation.
Former adviser to President Barack Obama, David Axelrod, highlighted risks, stating: “The tariffs and the war in Iran are politically costly decisions by @POTUS. Republican candidates must be contemplating the impact.”
Poll Findings
The RMG Research poll shows Trump’s approval at 46 percent and disapproval at 52 percent. The poll surveyed 2,000 registered voters from July 13 to July 21 and has a margin of error of ±2.2 percentage points.
A survey from The Economist/YouGov lists Trump’s approval at 36 percent, disapproval at 60 percent. It surveyed 1,602 U.S. adults from July 17 to July 20 with a ±3.3 percentage point margin of error.
The Fox News Poll indicates Trump’s approval at 39 percent versus disapproval at 61 percent, conducted among 1,003 registered voters from July 17 to July 20 with a margin of error of ±3 percentage points.
An American Research Group poll shows his approval at 30 percent, disapproval at 67 percent, and 3 percent undecided, surveyed from July 16 to July 20 among 1,100 U.S. adults with a ±3 percentage point margin of error.
Contact Newsweek editors on this story: Anna Commander and Dave Siminoff.