WASHINGTON — A recent AP‑KFF survey of more than 2,000 rural registered voters reveals a complex picture as the midterm elections approach. About half of those surveyed say they approve of President Trump’s overall job performance, a higher share than the approval rating reported for U.S. adults in separate AP‑NORC polling.

Economic frustration remains widespread

Despite the solid approval numbers, the poll shows strong economic anxiety among rural Americans. Roughly four‑in‑ten rural voters rate the national economy as worse than when President Trump returned to office, and a similar share say the economy in their own communities has not improved.

Cost of living concerns dominate the respondents’ priorities. About three‑quarters rate the cost of groceries, gas and health‑care as “only fair” or “poor,” and a larger share than the general electorate says they worry about affording these essentials.

Partisan differences in outlook

Rural Republican voters are more optimistic about the national economy than their Democratic or independent counterparts. Six‑in‑ten rural Republicans say President Trump has improved the national economy, compared with roughly two‑in‑ten independents and fewer than one‑in‑ten Democrats.

However, only 45% of rural Republican respondents believe the president has helped their local economies, and one‑in‑four say there are fewer good‑paying jobs in their area than five years ago.

Healthcare policies seen as ineffective

The poll also shows limited perceived impact from the administration’s health‑care initiatives. Just 17% of rural voters say the president’s health policies have had a positive effect on their health‑care costs, while 41% see no impact and another 41% view the impact as negative.

Many rural voters report hearing little about the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program, with about 60% saying they have heard nothing at all.

Voter sentiment ahead of November

These findings suggest that while economic frustration is high, President Trump retains substantial support among rural voters—a key constituency that has historically helped secure Republican victories. The data also indicates potential challenges for the party if economic concerns translate into lower turnout among working‑class Republicans.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.