Polls Show Sharp Drop in Trump Approval Amid Epstein Scandal

The Big Picture

President Donald Trump is facing what many analysts view as the most politically vulnerable period of his second term, as fresh polling data and mounting public frustration signal weakening support. The controversy surrounding his administration’s handling of the Jeffrey Epstein case has only added fuel to a difficult moment marked by sagging approval ratings and internal GOP unease.

What’s New

According to the latest aggregate polling from Decision Desk HQ (DDHQ), President Trump’s net approval rating has slipped by more than 9 percentage points. The poll reflects growing disapproval among a cross-section of American voters, particularly independents, who have voiced concerns over the president’s handling of sensitive issues, including immigration and transparency in high-profile investigations.

What the Poll Says

The national polling average compiled by DDHQ shows:

• Disapprove: 51.6%
• Approve: 45.6%

The data includes responses from likely voters (LV), registered voters (RV), and adults nationwide, offering a broad measure of public sentiment ahead of the 2026 general election. DDHQ notes its methodology prioritizes balanced, time-stamped averages that reflect changes in voter attitudes over time.

Fading Support on Key Issues

Many of the president’s sharpest declines appear to be tied to voter frustration on issues that were once considered core strengths of his platform, including immigration enforcement and national security. The erosion in approval suggests a shift in public perception as key controversies dominate headlines and dampen confidence among swing voters.

Impact of the Epstein Fallout

The renewed scrutiny over Trump’s connections to figures named in the Epstein case has intensified the political backlash. Critics argue that the administration has avoided transparency, further fueling skepticism. Although the White House has remained largely silent on the matter, calls for accountability continue to grow from both political opponents and segments of the public.

What’s Next

With the 2026 midterm cycle heating up, Trump’s political team is expected to reassess outreach strategies and messaging priorities. Analysts suggest the president must pivot quickly to focus on economic and legislative wins to regain momentum, especially among independents and suburban voters who are critical to maintaining GOP control in Congress.

The Bottom Line

President Trump is entering a pivotal phase in his second term, with mounting scandals and declining approval ratings placing his political capital at risk. How the administration navigates these crises could determine the balance of power in the next election—and the legacy of Trump’s second term.

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