Rising Support for Donald Trump Signals Shift in Public Opinion Ahead of 2026 Elections

As January opens, Donald Trump’s approval ratings show a slight improvement across several recent polls. This uptick suggests a modestly growing favorability among American voters early into 2026.

According to The Economist, Trump’s approval rating mirrors a turbulent political landscape, with ongoing public concern about his economic policies. Voters remain wary of tariffs and healthcare spending initiatives they fear might negatively impact their finances.

Trump’s first year back in office was notable for bold and often controversial actions. These included deploying troops in major U.S. cities, instituting widespread tariffs, and authorizing significant federal spending cuts, which involved eliminating government jobs.

One of the more unusual developments has been the demolition of the East Wing of the White House to make space for a massive ballroom. Additionally, Trump is pursuing the construction of a large arch in Washington, D.C., reminiscent of Paris’ Arc de Triomphe, though funding sources remain unclear.

Latest Polling Data from Leading Sources

1. The Economist (Early January):

   • Favorable: 39%
   • Unfavorable: 56%
   • Not sure: 4%
     Respondents rank inflation, jobs, economy, and healthcare as top issues.

2. New York Times (Early January):

   • Favorable: 42%
   • Unfavorable: 54%

3. Silver Bulletin (Nate Silver) (Early January):

   • Favorable: 42%
   • Unfavorable: 54%

4. Civiqs (January 1):

   • Favorable: 40%
   • Unfavorable: 56%
   • Not sure: 4%

5. Rasmussen (December 31):

   • Favorable: 44%
   • Unfavorable: 56%
   • 29% strongly approve
   • 44% strongly disapprove

6. Morning Consult (Late December):

   • Favorable: 45%
   • Unfavorable: 52%

7. American Research Group (Late December):

   • Favorable: 35%
   • Unfavorable: 62%

8. Emerson College (Mid December):

   • Favorable: 41%
   • Unfavorable: 50%

9. Fox News (Mid December):

   • Favorable: 44%
   • Unfavorable: 56%

10. Reuters/Ipsos (Mid December):

    • Favorable: 39%
    • Unfavorable: 59%
11. Gallup (Early to Mid December):
    • Favorable: 36%
    • Unfavorable: 59%
    • No opinion: 5%

Across these polls, Trump’s public approval shows a range generally between the mid-30s to mid-40s percent favorability, with consistent disapproval surpassing the 50% mark.

Public opinion continues to be divided sharply, reflecting the president’s controversial policy decisions and unconventional leadership style. Economic concerns and healthcare remain the predominant issues influencing voters’ views.

The mixed polling results underscore Trump’s polarized standing, with a considerable portion of Americans either strongly approving or strongly disapproving of his presidency. These dynamics could shape political developments and electoral considerations as the year advances.

As the political landscape evolves, future polls will indicate whether this upward trend in approval persists or if challenges will temper public sentiment toward the administration.