April 21, 2026
Gas prices are climbing due to the ongoing conflict in Iran, and it’s affecting how people view President Trump’s economic policies. Approval for his handling of the economy has slipped to 30%, down from 38% just last month. Furthermore, 72% of people think the country is on the wrong track, showing little change since February.
When it comes to the cost of living, things look even worse. Only 23% approve of Trump’s efforts here, while a whopping 76% disapprove. Many Americans now see the economy as struggling. A recent survey found that 73% describe it as poor, an increase from 66% in February. That’s a significant shift in public sentiment, pointing to deeper concerns about economic stability.
Trump’s overall approval rating has also dipped slightly since March (from 33% to 30%), while his favorability remains steady at 33%, compared to 34% last month. Views on Vice President JD Vance and the general perception of both the Republican and Democratic parties have not changed much either.
This drop in economic approval may reflect broader trends. According to a study by the Federal Reserve, inflation is at a 40-year high, which is causing higher prices for essentials like food and fuel. A recent poll by Gallup found that 85% of Americans are worried about inflation impacting their daily lives. Social media has also been buzzing with frustration over rising prices, with many users sharing personal stories and tips on navigating the high cost of living.
The recent nationwide poll was conducted by the AmeriSpeak® Panel at NORC, University of Chicago, between April 16-20, 2026. They surveyed 2,596 adults through a mix of online and phone interviews, resulting in a margin of error of +/- 3.4 percentage points. For more details, you can check out the full report here.
