Former President Donald Trump’s recent assertion on Truth Social about achieving the “HIGHEST POLL NUMBERS OF MY ‘POLITICAL CAREER'” reflects a stark divergence from the reality captured in recent polling data. While he expresses confidence over what he touts as achievements in the economy, border security, and foreign affairs, the numbers tell a different story.
A Fox News survey conducted from November 14 to 17, 2025, shows Trump’s job approval at a troubling 41%. His economic approval is even lower, sinking to 38%. These figures rank among the lowest of his presidency, second only to a brief dip in 2017. Moreover, a significant number of Republicans, 42%, now blame Trump for the nation’s economic struggles, rather than attributing them to his successor.
The gap between Trump’s self-assessment and public sentiment underscores a critical challenge as the 2026 midterms approach. In his post, Trump asserted that his economic efforts “have not yet been fully appreciated,” but a survey reveals that fewer than 25% of voters hold a positive view of the current economy. Concerningly, 60% of respondents described their family’s financial situation as fair or poor.
Pollster Daron Shaw explained, “People are struggling to afford necessities and blaming those in charge.” While Trump highlights stock market gains, voters gauge economic health based on everyday expenses. Reports illustrate a clear sense of financial strain: 85% of those surveyed mentioned rising grocery prices, and 60% noted they have increased “a lot.” In fact, 46% felt Trump’s economic policies have personally hurt them, while merely 18% reported feeling any benefit.
Even amid recent positive developments, including better job statistics and stock market stability, public sentiment remains skeptical. While gas prices might have receded, essential costs in groceries, utilities, and housing persist in weighing heavily on family budgets. A majority of Americans feel disconnected from their political leaders, with over 60% indicating that neither Trump nor Congress truly represents their interests.
Trump also pointed to his foreign relations record as a strong suit. However, polling indicates fluctuating approval regarding foreign policy, with no broad consensus among voters feeling safer or more respected under his administration. Independents, crucial for any election campaign, have shown a notable shift away from Trump, with disapproval reflecting a steep drop from earlier approval ratings.
The only area where Trump still enjoys solid support is border security, with 53% of voters approving his approach. However, other key areas, such as healthcare and trade, show significantly lower approval at 34% and 35%, respectively. This variance highlights a broader concern: Trump’s messaging fails to align with the realities voters encounter daily. Despite his claims of decreasing prices, polls reveal that 78% of voters report continued rising utility costs.
Political experts observe a change in voter priorities, emphasizing a consistent focus on the economy. Wayne Lesperance, a political analyst, notes, “Voters are remarkably consistent in their priorities: the economy, the economy, the economy.” Democrats have been quick to seize on these sentiments. In recent elections, they reversed previous Republican gains in key battleground states largely by addressing voters’ concerns about affordability.
Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin encapsulated the strategy: “Democrats ran campaigns relentlessly focused on costs and affordability.” The approach resonated, as, despite Trump’s claims of economic progress, voters leaned towards candidates promising immediate relief from rising expenses.
Calls from constituents reflect the on-the-ground reality. New Hampshire radio host Jack Heath shares insights from listeners expressing daily frustrations over the cost of living. He underscored, “It’s affordability. It’s cost of living.” This focus on pocketbook issues seems to outweigh any perceived improvements in stock market performance or government statistics that tout job growth.
Congress isn’t faring better either, with disapproval ratings soaring for both parties amid the recent government shutdown. More than 60% of voters registered dissatisfaction with Congressional leadership, with only Senate Majority Leader John Thune managing to maintain a favorable view amidst bipartisan frustration.
This stark contrast between Trump’s social media portrayal and polling results signals a misalignment with public opinion. While the former president asserts he is at a peak of political approval, tangible support reflects a troubling decline across critical voter issues—especially the economy.
As the 2026 midterm elections draw closer, this widening gap between rhetoric and reality could have profound implications. Dwindling support from Independents, along with some Republicans, raises doubts about Trump’s ability to connect with voters beyond his most loyal base. Families nationwide face increasing financial pressures, suggesting a growing skepticism towards national leadership.
Ultimately, whether Trump can sway voter sentiment will hinge on more than just proclamations—real economic relief is what families are looking for, especially as they navigate the budgetary constraints that define their daily lives.
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