Trump Faces Voter Backlash Over Economy and Iran

More than half of American voters disapprove of President Donald Trump’s handling of inflation, the cost of living and the economy, according to a new Financial Times poll. The results come months before November’s congressional elections, in which Republicans will defend control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

The poll found that 58% of respondents rejected Trump’s approach to inflation and rising prices. More than half also criticized his economic policies and tariffs, which 55% said had hurt the US economy.

The negative sentiment has been amplified by the war in Iran, which has sharply increased fuel prices and divided some of Trump’s supporters in the MAGA movement.

Some 54% of voters also disapproved of the president’s handling of Iran. Independent voters were particularly critical, giving Trump a significantly negative rating. Democrats currently lead Republicans by eight percentage points, according to the poll.

The White House says Trump’s tax and energy policies will bring fuel prices down, slow inflation and encourage further investment. But the president faces growing concern that the economic situation could weaken Republicans ahead of the election.

Focaldata conducted the survey from 1 to 5 May among 3,167 registered voters.

(max)