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Trump’s net approval hits a record low ahead of US elections
Donald Trump’s net approval rating has fallen to its lowest level across his two terms, according to a Morning Consult survey published on the eve of US elections. The figures point to widespread dissatisfaction with his performance and add to concerns that Republicans could lose ground in the midterms.
The poll found that 56 per cent disapproved of Trump’s performance and 41 per cent approved, giving him a net rating of minus 15 points; 46 per cent strongly disapproved, compared with 22 per cent who strongly approved. Democrats led Republicans 50 to 43 per cent in the polling cited, while voters were more likely to prioritise lower prices and housing affordability than to believe Washington was addressing them. In Texas, Democrat James Talarico was seen as a possible challenger for a Senate seat the party has not held since 1988, as some Republicans questioned whether Trump could hurt candidates.
In short
- Trump’s net approval rating fell to minus 15, a low across his two terms.
- Democrats led Republicans 50 to 43 per cent in the cited polling.
- Some Republicans questioned whether Trump could be a liability in close races.
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The case for
Critics can argue that the poll signals broad dissatisfaction with Trump’s performance and that his standing may make it harder for Republicans to retain support in the midterms. Voters’ emphasis on prices and housing affordability, alongside doubts that Washington is addressing these concerns, gives added weight to questions about whether the administration is meeting people’s priorities.
The case against
The poll is a snapshot of opinion ahead of an election, not a verdict on Trump’s record or a reliable forecast of results; voters may weigh other issues or change their minds. Supporters can also argue that approval figures need to be judged against the choices available to voters and that Republican candidates may be assessed on their own records and positions rather than Trump’s popularity alone.
Explained simply
The US holds national elections halfway through a president’s four-year term, known as midterms. Voters choose all members of the House of Representatives and some senators, and the results can change which party controls Congress.
Donald Trump is a Republican, and the party’s candidates are seeking to retain or win seats in Congress. Approval polls ask people whether they support a president’s performance; they offer a snapshot of opinion, while election results determine who wins office.
Control of Congress affects which laws can pass and how closely the president’s administration is scrutinised. Voters’ views on issues such as prices and housing can influence how they vote, alongside their views of the president and congressional candidates.
Americas Elections Government Politics World
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Trump’s ratings slump to lowest ever on the eve of crucial elections”.