US President Donald Trump’s approval rating has fallen to a record low of 31%, as rising gasoline prices and economic concerns threaten Republican prospects ahead of the November 3 congressional elections, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll.
The four-day survey, which concluded on Monday, October 19, showed that Trump’s approval rating declined by one percentage point from two weeks earlier. The latest figure marks the lowest approval rating of either of his presidential terms.
Meanwhile, Democrats have established a significant lead over Republicans in the congressional election race. According to the poll, 47% of registered voters said they would support Democratic candidates if elections were held today, compared with 35% who favoured Republicans.
The 12-point Democratic advantage represents the widest margin recorded during the current election cycle, strengthening the party’s hopes of gaining control of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Women voters have contributed significantly to the Democrats’ growing advantage. Around 50% of female respondents favoured Democratic candidates, compared with 32% supporting Republicans. Male voters also leaned towards Democrats, although the gap was narrower.
Economic dissatisfaction remains a major challenge for Trump. Approximately 68% of respondents disapproved of his handling of the economy, including 37% of Republicans. Furthermore, voters considered Democrats better equipped to manage economic affairs, favouring them over Republicans by 40% to 33%.
The economic pressure has intensified following a surge in gasoline prices linked to the conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.
The poll surveyed 1,679 American adults, including 1,279 registered voters. Its margin of error was two percentage points for all respondents and three percentage points among registered voters.
A Democratic victory in either congressional chamber could complicate Trump’s legislative agenda during the final two years of his presidency. However, national polling cannot fully predict individual races that will determine control of Congress.
