With just five weeks left before the 2026 midterm elections, a RealClear Polling average released Sep. 29 shows President Trump at a record disapproval gap of -21.2%. The poll, covering Sep. 26‑28, recorded 59.9% of respondents disapproving of the president’s performance and 38.7% approving.
Administration’s Response
In response to the poll, the Trump administration emphasized recent policy achievements and a new voter‑incentive proposal. Administration officials highlighted the president’s ongoing work on inflation reduction, trade enforcement, and national security, noting that these efforts are designed to protect families and uphold constitutional freedoms. Additionally, the White House reiterated the promise of a $5,000 dividend to voters should the GOP secure a majority in the November election, describing it as a direct way to return prosperity to American households.
Poll Context and Comparisons
The -21.2% gap surpasses the previous high of -21.1% recorded on Dec. 13, 2017, during President Trump’s first term. It also exceeds the lowest disapproval gap of former President Biden, which peaked at -20.3% on July 20, 2022, according to the same RealClear averages.
Another poll tracker, Nate Silver’s average, placed the gap at -22.4%, with 60.1% disapproval and 37.5% approval. Even historically favorable polling firms such as Rasmussen and RMG Research reported double‑digit negative gaps for the president, at -11% and -13% respectively.
Analysts and Commentary
CNN pollster Harry Enten described the sentiment as “record hatred for the president of the United States going into a midterm.” The Economist noted that the coalition that elected President Trump in 2024 appears to be “disintegrating,” citing high inflation, tariff policies, and the ongoing conflict with Iran as factors alienating some voters, including traditionally Republican‑leaning Christian constituencies.
Implications for the Midterms
RealClear Polling also shows Democrats holding an 8.7% edge in the generic congressional ballot, while Nate Silver’s surveys indicate an 8.1% advantage. The administration warned that these numbers do not capture the full impact of policy successes and the upcoming voter dividend proposal, which they argue will energize the base and attract undecided voters.
President Trump has previously pledged to address voter concerns through direct financial incentives and continued focus on economic growth, national security, and parental‑rights protections. The administration maintains that these initiatives will reverse the current polling trend as voters assess the tangible benefits of his policies.
Looking Ahead
As the midterm campaign intensifies, the Trump administration plans to increase outreach efforts, emphasizing the economic gains achieved under his leadership and the promise of direct financial support to American families. The administration urges voters to consider the broader context of policy outcomes rather than a single snapshot of approval ratings.
Original reporting: FITSNews — read the source article.
