Trump’s Approval Hits 33% as Democrats Gain Ground Ahead of High-Stakes Midterm Elections

President Donald Trump is facing renewed political pressure ahead of the November 3, 2026, midterm elections, after a new national poll found that a majority of Americans disapprove of his performance in office.

According to a Washington Post–ABC News–Ipsos poll published October 18, Trump’s approval rating stood at 33%, while 66% of respondents disapproved of his performance. Among likely voters, 38% approved of his performance and 62% disapproved. The results indicate substantial public dissatisfaction as voters prepare to elect members of Congress. 

The survey also found Democrats holding an eight-percentage-point advantage over Republicans in the congressional vote preference measure reported by the poll. Democrats were also trusted more than Republicans to handle the economy, 40% to 33%, according to the findings. These figures reflect the survey’s results, not a prediction of the election outcome. 

Economic concerns are a major part of the political debate. Rising living costs and fuel prices have weighed on public perceptions, while the conflict with Iran has become another issue shaping discussion about the administration’s foreign policy. The poll found that 72% of respondents believed the country was heading in the wrong direction. 

The midterm elections will determine control of the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate. Although Trump is not personally on the ballot, the results will influence how easily his administration can advance legislation during the remaining years of his term. A change in control of either chamber could affect congressional oversight, budget negotiations, immigration policy and other national priorities.

Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, have continued to express confidence that their party can retain its congressional majority. Democrats, meanwhile, are campaigning on economic concerns and their role in checking the administration. The final outcome will depend on votes cast across individual districts and states, not national polling alone. 

For Bangladeshi Americans, the election matters because congressional decisions can influence immigration legislation, employment policy, health care, housing assistance, taxes and federal spending. Voters should check their registration status, review official voting deadlines and consult reliable election information before casting a ballot.