Only a few months into his second term, Donald Trump’s approval rating has jumped to 44%, catching both pundits and political foes off guard. Whether you love him or loathe him, this rebound is worth understanding—especially with the 2026 midterms already casting a long shadow.
Trump’s Approval Rating Just SHOCKED Everyone
| Insight | Stat |
|---|---|
| Current approval | 44 % |
| Immigration shift | +1 ppt net approval |
| GOP support | 81 % of MAGA Republicans back tariffs |
Trump’s current 44% approval rating is a rebound from April’s low 40s, buoyed by gains in immigration approval and MAGA loyalty. But his overall popularity is still teetering—with disapproval consistently outpacing support. Whether he can shift that balance before the midterms could determine not just the next Congress, but the future of his legacy.
What’s Driving Trump’s Approval Surge?
1. A Surprise Turn on Immigration
Trump’s net approval on immigration has climbed from –21% to +1% since last term. According to CNN analyst Harry Enten, this is Trump’s biggest leap on any single issue this year. His decision to deploy 2,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles amid immigration-related violence likely played into the sentiment shift.
2. Locked-In GOP Base
Despite broader disapproval, Trump enjoys a rock-solid 81% approval among MAGA Republicans, especially when it comes to tariffs and “America First” economic policies. This inner circle remains one of his strongest buffers against bad press and market jitters.
“He’s giving voice to the forgotten Americans. Tariffs may sting now, but they’ll make us stronger long-term,” said one Iowa farmer I interviewed recently.
3. Economic Gambles and Public Perception
While the broader market reacted poorly to recent tariff announcements—sending volatility up and stocks down—Trump’s core audience sees these moves as principled stands. The rest of the country? Less convinced. According to aggregated polls, only 40–41% approve of his economic performance, while 54–59% disapprove.
He’s Up, But Not Quite “Popular” Yet
The 44% approval rating marks an improvement—but Trump still trails in overall favorability. RealClearPolitics shows 47.6% approval vs. 49.3% disapproval. Silver Bulletin puts him even lower: 45.9% approval to 51.3% disapproval.
On the economy—a key issue in any presidency—his numbers are underwater, with inflation concerns dragging approval down.
MAGA Momentum vs. Mainstream Doubt
For every supporter cheering Trump’s boldness, there’s a moderate voter worried about long-term consequences. That tension explains why Trump can simultaneously energize rallies and struggle with suburban swing voters.
Can He Climb Higher?
What Could Help
- Clear wins on immigration or tariffs
- Calmer inflation numbers
- Momentum in swing states
What Could Hurt
- Economic fallout from trade fights
- Media backlash
- Further erosion among independents
In true Trump fashion, he’s already challenging negative poll results, labeling them “FAKE” and demanding federal investigations into pollsters. It’s a move that energizes his base—but does little to sway fence-sitters.
FAQs
What changed in Trump’s immigration approval?
It moved from –21% to +1%, mostly after he sent troops to L.A. following immigrant-related unrest.
How strong is his base?
Extremely—81% of MAGA Republicans still back him, especially on tariffs and border issues.
Does he have overall majority support?
Not yet. Most polls still show slightly more Americans disapprove than approve.
