A new poll reveals a significant increase in American dissatisfaction with President Donald Trump’s handling of the economy, with a majority now expressing disapproval. The survey indicates that economic concerns are weighing heavily on voters’ minds, potentially impacting broader public opinion.

The NPR/PBS News/Marist poll found that 57 percent of respondents disapprove of Trump’s economic management, a figure representing the lowest rating on this issue during his presidency. Conversely, only 36 percent approve of his economic stewardship, highlighting a widening gap in public perception.

Partisan divides remain stark, with 81 percent of Republicans voicing approval of Trump’s economic policies. However, this is sharply contrasted by 91 percent of Democrats who disapprove. Among independent voters, the sentiment leans heavily towards disapproval, with 68 percent expressing negative views compared to 24 percent who approve.

This weakening support for Trump’s economic agenda appears to be contributing to his overall sagging approval ratings, which have fallen to 38 percent, the lowest since his departure from the White House in 2021. Experts suggest that when affordability is a primary concern for citizens, the chief executive is often held accountable.

Further underscoring these economic anxieties, approximately 70 percent of those surveyed, including nearly half of Republicans, reported that the cost of living in their communities is not affordable or not very affordable. This represents a substantial 25-point decline in affordability perceptions since June.

Adding to the economic unease, about one-third of respondents indicated their personal financial situation has worsened in 2025, and a similar proportion anticipates further deterioration next year. A majority of Americans, 52 percent, also believe the U.S. is currently experiencing a recession.

In the realm of political strategy, Democrats have effectively utilized concerns about affordability to achieve electoral successes in various key races. In response, the Trump administration has adopted a more assertive approach to promote its economic policies, with the President himself dismissing affordability concerns as a “hoax” and claiming prices are beginning to fall.

However, critics, including prominent Democrats and some Republicans, have voiced strong opposition to the administration’s messaging. They argue that the President’s statements fail to acknowledge the genuine financial struggles faced by many Americans, particularly those concerned about inflation and making ends meet.

Despite these criticisms, the White House maintains that Trump’s economic agenda is delivering positive results, citing cooling inflation and substantial investments as evidence of a recovering economy. This divergence in perspective highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the state of the U.S. economy and its impact on public sentiment.

The survey, conducted from December 8-11, involved 1,440 U.S. adults and carries a margin of error of 3.2 percentage points, providing a robust snapshot of current public opinion on economic matters.

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Keywords: Trump economy, American economic sentiment, poll disapproval, affordability crisis, cost of living, US recession, economic management, voter frustration