Trump's approval hits record low before midterms in WSJ poll
A Wall Street Journal poll found President Trump's approval at 37 percent, the lowest for a president shortly before a midterm since George H.W. Bush. The survey showed 60 percent believed Trump's economic policies had worsened the economy, and it came amid the Iran war, immigration concerns, and cost-of-living worries. The poll was conducted from Sept. 16 to 21.
The Journal survey, conducted Sept. 16–21 with 1,500 registered voters and a 2.5-point error margin, put Trump at 37 percent. That is the outlet’s lowest pre-midterm reading since George H.W. Bush; George W. Bush’s second-term figure was 39 percent. Sixty percent said Trump’s economic approach hurt the economy, 25 percent said it helped, 10 percent saw no effect, and 5 percent were unsure or did not answer.
The Iran conflict had reached seven months, the Strait of Hormuz was closed, and AAA reported regular gasoline near $4.48 per gallon Monday, versus about $3.13 a year earlier. Charlie Cook of the Cook Political Report said Democrats likely would win the House and that a Senate takeover was now very realistic.
The poll may intensify Democratic momentum and Republican anxiety, potentially influencing turnout, ad spending, and policy promises in the final weeks. Voters facing higher fuel and living costs could weigh economic stewardship heavily; incumbents may adjust messaging on Iran, immigration, and prices. Markets and allies might read weakened standing as reduced political capital, though polls alone cannot predict results.