Donald Trump's disapproval rating has reached 62%, the worst of his two terms in office, according to a new Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll. The survey, conducted six months before the US midterm elections, shows the president's approval rating at 37%, little changed from 39% in February, but his disapproval has climbed to a record high.
The president faces his harshest criticism on economic issues, with 76% disapproving of his handling of the cost of living and 66% disapproving of his management of the war against Iran, which began in February and has triggered an oil crisis and soaring petrol prices. On every issue measured, a majority of Americans expressed disapproval, with two-thirds saying the country is heading in the wrong direction.
Among Republican voters, Trump's approval remains high at 85%, though the share who strongly approve has fallen from 53% to 45%. His rating among Republican-leaning independents has dropped to a new low of 56%, while overall independents give him just 25% approval. On immigration, 40% approve and 59% disapprove, while on the border specifically, 45% approve and 56% disapprove.
The weak ratings threaten the Republicans' narrow House majority and put the Senate at risk. Among registered voters, Democrats hold a five-point lead in House preferences, up from two points in February and October, and the advantage widens to nine points among those certain to vote. Democrats are also more energised, with 73% saying these midterms are much more important than past ones, compared with 52% of Republicans. Turnout intentions are highest among Democrats and Maga Republicans, with 79% and 77% respectively saying they are absolutely certain to vote.
The poll also found strong opposition to specific presidential actions, including ending birthright citizenship, cutting federal funding for medical research, increasing defence spending, and ending temporary legal status for migrants from war-torn countries. Additionally, about seven in ten Americans say Trump is not honest and trustworthy, and six in ten say he lacks the mental sharpness to serve as president.
