Trump's rural approval slips to 50% as cost‑of‑living pressures mount

A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted online from June 3‑8 surveyed 4,531 U.S. adults and found President Donald Trump’s approval among rural voters fell to 50 percent, down from 60 percent in February 2025. Disapproval rose to 48 percent. Only 31 percent of rural respondents approved of Trump’s handling of the economy and cost‑of‑living issues, while 61 percent disapproved.

Respondents linked the decline to higher gasoline and grocery prices tied to the war in Iran, which disrupted oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and global fertilizer trade. Rural residents such as Brian Rauch, a 42‑year‑old veteran from Stevensville, Montana, said, “We’re in bigger water fights with AI, we’re all paying more for groceries and we’re all paying more for gas,” adding that the squeeze is affecting his daily life.

The poll noted that Trump’s overall national approval sits at 35 percent, and his net rating has slipped to around –25. Analysts suggest the erosion of support in a traditionally reliable demographic could hurt Republican prospects in the upcoming midterm elections, where the party will defend narrow majorities in Congress.