Trump’s Job Approval Declines to 39%

A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll reveals that President Donald Trump’s approval rating has fallen to 39 percent, down from 41 percent earlier this month, signaling growing dissatisfaction among Americans, particularly regarding economic conditions.

The drop appears partly driven by declining confidence among Republican voters, many of whom had backed Trump based on promises to address inflation and rising living costs.

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Economic Handling Sees Lowest Ratings

The survey showed that only 33 percent of respondents approve of Trump’s management of economic issues, marking the lowest level since he began his second term in January 2025.

Rising affordability challenges—including healthcare, housing, and food prices—pose a significant political risk for Trump and his allies as they navigate domestic policy priorities.

A recent Politico poll highlighted that 55 percent of Americans attribute at least some responsibility for increased food costs to Trump’s policies.

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Cost-of-Living Approval Plummets

According to Reuters/Ipsos:

• Trump’s approval rating on cost-of-living issues fell to 27 percent from 31 percent earlier in December.
• Among Republicans, approval of his handling of the economy dropped from 78 percent to 72 percent, indicating eroding party confidence.

These figures suggest that economic anxiety is emerging as a major concern for voters across party lines.

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Trump Claims Economy Is in a ‘Golden Age’

Despite growing dissatisfaction, Trump insists that concerns over affordability are “a hoax” perpetrated by hostile media and Democratic opponents.

“I am crushing inflation, and prices are coming down tremendously,” Trump said last week, framing the US economy as entering a ‘golden age.’”

Some Democrats have noted the similarity to arguments made by former President Joe Biden during his tenure (2021-2025), when he faced criticism for downplaying inflation and rising living costs.

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Historical Context and Political Implications

Trump’s approval rating has declined from a high of 47 percent when he returned to the White House but has remained relatively stable between the high 30s and low 40s in recent months.

Analysts suggest that while Trump maintains a solid base of support among Republicans, continued economic strain and affordability issues could impact voter sentiment and midterm dynamics in the coming year.