Trump approval hits record low in new poll ahead of midterm elections

Why it matters locally: The national poll's findings on declining confidence in the president and concerns over economic policy are likely to be closely watched by voters and political campaigns across Indiana as the 2026 midterm elections approach.

---

President Trump's approval rating has dropped to a record low, according to a poll conducted by NPR, PBS News, and Marist College released ahead of the summer season and the upcoming midterm elections. The survey measured both Trump's overall job performance and his stewardship of economic policy. Respondents indicated declining confidence in the president across both measures as Americans head into the final stretch before the midterm contests. The timing of the poll coincides with increased political activity surrounding the 2026 midterm elections, when control of Congress will be contested. The findings suggest economic concerns weigh heavily on public sentiment toward the administration.