Donald Trump's Rural Backlash Deepens in New U.S. Poll

A new poll conducted by NPR/PBS NewsHour/Marist between June 8 and June 11, 2026 surveyed 1,340 adults and found President Donald Trump's net approval among rural American voters has fallen to minus 10 points, a drop of 32 points since his first month back in office. Only 43 % of rural respondents said they approve of Trump, while 53 % disapprove. Overall national approval sits at 36 % with 59 % disapproval.

The poll shows even sharper negativity in urban areas (‑37 points) and highlights growing criticism of Trump’s handling of the economy, cost‑of‑living concerns, and the impact of the Iran conflict on gasoline prices. Analysts note the slump in his rural base could jeopardize the GOP’s already thin majorities in the Senate and House ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.