Donald Trump disputes polling showing low approval ratings

President Donald Trump has rejected recent polling data indicating low approval ratings, claiming his actual job approval is approximately 60%. During an interview with The Washington Examiner, Trump dismissed figures from RealClearPolitics, which show an average approval rating of 38.8% and a disapproval rating of 60.4%, labeling them “fake.”

Trump specifically criticized The New York Times for its use of Wedgewood Polls, a firm that recently admitted to producing fabricated figures as a social experiment. While Trump suggested his approval rating is in the 60% range and noted high support within the Republican Party, data analysts have highlighted declining trends. For instance, CNN's Harry Enten noted that Trump’s net approval rating regarding inflation shifted from +8 points during the 2024 election to -45 points leading up to the midterm elections.

As the midterm elections approach on November 3, the results will determine whether the Republican Party maintains control of Congress. A loss of control would leave Trump in a “lame duck” position, limiting his ability to pass legislation, appoint judges, or confirm officials, while potentially increasing opposition investigations.