President Donald Trump’s approval rating on his handling of the economy has hit a new low, according to a new poll from Quinnipiac University on Wednesday.
Why It Matters
Trump’s sliding grade on the economy comes as Americans have reported increased anxiety over the rising costs of living, a softening job market, and a protracted government shutdown. Voters’ view of the economy is widely considered pivotal to presidential success and midterm electoral prospects.
As economic issues take center stage, declines in public confidence could influence the legislative and electoral landscape heading into 2026.
What To Know
In the poll, Trump received a 38 percent approval rating on the issue compared to a 57 percent disapproval rating. Five percent did not offer an opinion.
The poll surveyed 1,327 self-identified registered voters nationwide from October 16 to October 20. The poll has a plus or minus 3.5 percentage point margin of error.
“With a nearly 20-point gap between approval and disapproval on President Trump’s handling of the economy, it’s a low water mark for a president who promised a vibrant and muscular economy,” Quinnipiac University Polling Analyst Tim Malloy said of the survey.
This is the president’s lowest score on the issue since February 2017, according to the survey.
The poll also notes that 45 percent of respondents said they think Republicans in Congress are responsible for the government shutdown, while 39 percent blame Democrats in Congress . Eleven percent said that they think both parties are equally responsible.
What People Are Saying
Trump on Truth Social earlier this month: “Democrats have SHUT DOWN the United States Government right in the midst of one of the most successful Economies, including a Record Stock Market, that our Country has ever had. This has sadly affected so many programs, services, and other elements of Society that Americans rely on — And it should not have happened. I am happy to work with the Democrats on their Failed Healthcare Policies, or anything else, but first they must allow our Government to re-open. In fact, they should open our Government tonight!”
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York on X yesterday: “As millions endure the pain of one of the longest shutdowns in American history The House is still out on vacation… And Senate Republicans are at the White House for a Rose Garden pep rally to celebrate keeping the government shutdown going!?
Mark Williams, a master finance lecturer at Boston University’s Questrom School of Business, told Newsweek via email on Wednesday: “The President’s low approval rating is being caused by increased firings, growing unemployment, stubbornly high inflation, and a government shutdown with no end in sight. “
What Happens Next
The polling was conducted amid the federal government shutdown that began October 1, as funding disputes between Republicans and Democrats in Congress persist.
The shutdown has led to unpaid federal workers and altered or suspended services. Both parties continue to blame each other for the impasse, with partisan messaging intensifying as the 2026 midterm elections approach. Economists warn that prolonged political and economic uncertainty could continue to weigh on consumer and business confidence, with several polls indicating the majority of Americans view the nation as on the wrong track.
