New national surveys released in mid‑May 2026 reveal President Donald Trump’s approval slipping to the lowest levels of his tenure. Five major pollsters recorded figures ranging from 31% to 39% approval, underscoring a steep dip just weeks before the 2026 midterm elections.

Emerson College poll shows 39% approval, a new term low

According to Emerson College polling, only 39% of respondents approve of Trump’s job performance, marking the weakest showing for the president in that poll’s history.. The survey, released in late May, places Trump’s support just above the mid‑30s range that other pollsters have reported.

American Research Group hits 31% approval, the lowest of any term

The American Research Group (ARG) released a national survey indicating Trump’s approval at a mere 31%, with 64% disapproving. the report notes this is the lowest approval rating recorded in either of Trump’s presidential terms, a stark contrast to the double‑digit margins he enjoyed earlier in his administration.

YouGov records 34% approval, 59% disapproval in its tracking series

YouGov’s latest tracking survey placed Trump’s approval at 34% and disapproval at 59%, the lowest points in the series that spans both of his terms. The pollster highlighted that the decline is broad‑based, affecting not only the Republican base but also independent voters.

White House dismisses poll dip as a snapshot, not a mandate shift

The White House has downplayed the polling slide, describing the numbers as a temporary snapshot rather than a measure of enduring political strength.. Officials pointed to Trump’s 2024 election victory as evidence of a “durable mandate” that outweighs short‑term fluctuations, according to statements from the administration.

Will GOP field candidates despite 31% approval?

Republican strategists now face the question of whether to double down on Trump‑aligned candidates or pivot to newer faces.. The polls suggest a challenging national environment, especially as voter sentiment softens beyond the core GOP base. Analysts note that midterm outcomes have historically been shaped by broad approval trends, but the exact impact on the 2026 races remains uncertain.