Trump’s Economic Approval Rating Hits Record Low Amid Government Shutdown

President Donald Trump’s economic approval rating has fallen to a new low as a government shutdown continues to impact the nation, according to a recent nationwide survey.

The CNBC All-America Economic Survey, released today, found that 42 percent of respondents approve of Trump’s handling of the economy, while 55 percent disapprove – the lowest approval rating of his two terms. The survey, conducted October 8-12 among 1,000 adults, also revealed that only 27 percent believe the economy is “good” or “excellent,” with 72 percent describing it as “fair” or “poor.” Just 32 percent anticipate economic improvement in the coming year, the lowest level since March 2024. This decline in confidence could influence upcoming elections and policy debates.

Approval of Trump’s handling of inflation and the cost of living has also plummeted to 34 percent, with 62 percent disapproving. His tariff policies also received negative marks, with 41 percent approval and 56 percent disapproval. The current shutdown, which began October 1 after disagreements over spending proposals, is largely blamed for the economic downturn, with 53 percent of respondents pointing to Trump and congressional Republicans, and 37 percent blaming Democrats. For more information on government shutdowns, see the USA.gov resource.

“Donald Trump was reelected specifically to improve the economy, and so far, people are not liking what they’re seeing,” said Jay Campbell, a partner with Hart Associates, the Democratic pollster for the survey. The last government shutdown during Trump’s first term in 2018 lasted 35 days, becoming the longest in U.S. history, and a prolonged shutdown now could have similar consequences for the national economy. You can find more details about the economic impact of shutdowns at the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.

The White House has been contacted for comment, and the shutdown will continue until Congress reaches a deal on a funding bill.