A new national poll conducted by NBC News reveals that a majority of registered voters disapprove of President Donald Trump’s handling of several major issues as the country heads into the midterm election year. At the same time, Democrats hold a modest advantage in the race for control of Congress, according to the survey.
Trump’s Low Approval on Major Issues
The poll found significant dissatisfaction with President Trump’s management of key issues. Voters expressed negative views on the economy, immigration, tariffs, inflation, and the ongoing conflict with Iran.
Economy and Inflation
The president received his lowest ratings on the economy, with 62% of voters disapproving of his handling of inflation and the cost of living. Only 36% of voters approve of his economic policies. Nearly half (48%) of respondents believe Trump’s policies have hurt the economy, while 35% feel they have been beneficial.
Tariffs
Tariffs imposed by the Trump administration have also drawn criticism. A majority of voters (55%) believe that these tariffs have harmed the economy, with only 33% saying they have helped.
Iran Conflict
In terms of foreign policy, the poll also found that a majority of voters oppose the U.S. strikes on Iran, reflecting a broader dissatisfaction with the ongoing conflict in the region.
Immigration and Border Security
Opinions on immigration enforcement under President Trump are more divided. While 54% of voters disapprove of his handling of immigration enforcement, 53% approve of his management of border security. These views were collected before Trump dismissed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who had been closely associated with his immigration policies.
The poll also found that a majority of voters (more than 50%) have negative views of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), while 38% hold positive views of the agency. Additionally, 43% of voters expressed negative opinions about so-called sanctuary cities.
Shifts in Public Attitudes Toward Voting Laws
Another notable finding of the survey was a shift in public opinion regarding voting laws. When asked about priorities for future election laws, 51% of voters expressed more concern about preventing ineligible voters from casting ballots, while 47% prioritized ensuring that all eligible voters can vote.
Congressional Preferences: Democrats Hold Modest Lead
Despite the discontent with Trump’s handling of major issues, Democrats hold a 6-point advantage over Republicans in the fight for control of Congress. According to the poll, 50% of registered voters say they prefer Democratic control of Congress, while 44% favor Republicans.
While this represents a solid lead for Democrats, the poll also revealed that they face challenges of their own. When asked which party would do a better job handling voters’ top issues, Democrats hold a narrower 48% to 45% advantage over Republicans.
Analysis of the Poll Results
Democratic pollster Jeff Horwitt and Republican pollster Bill McInturff, who conducted the survey, noted that the data points to a deeply frustrated electorate. Voters disapprove of Trump’s handling of multiple issues, including the economy, Iran, and immigration, while expressing anger at the establishment. Horwitt emphasized that this dissatisfaction is likely driving a demand for change and could influence the outcome of the midterm elections.
“Majorities disapproving of his actions on Iran and inflation, coupled with profound anger at the establishment, indicate an electorate once again fed up with those in power,” Horwitt stated.
