U.S. President Donald Trump continues to command broad support within the Republican Party despite growing dissatisfaction over the economy and concerns tied to the ongoing conflict with Iran, according to a new poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.
The survey found that roughly six in 10 Republicans approve of Trump’s handling of the economy, a noticeable decline from earlier this year when support among Republican voters stood closer to eight in 10 before the escalation of tensions involving Iran.
Despite the decline, Trump’s standing inside the Republican Party remains relatively strong overall, with immigration continuing to serve as one of his most resilient political issues. Around 80% of Republican respondents said they approve of the president’s immigration policies, according to the poll.
Economic Confidence Weakens Among Republicans
The findings suggest that economic concerns are becoming a growing vulnerability for Trump as inflation and rising fuel prices continue affecting U.S. households.
Only about one-third of Americans overall approve of Trump’s handling of the economy, while 62% disapprove of his overall job performance, according to the AP-NORC data collected between May 14 and May 18 among 1,117 adults nationwide.
Analysts noted that the decline in Republican confidence appears closely linked to the economic fallout associated with the conflict involving Iran, which has contributed to higher gasoline prices and broader market uncertainty. Additional polling cited by international media outlets has also shown Trump’s economic approval ratings falling to some of the lowest levels of his second term.
The economy had long been viewed as one of Trump’s strongest political issues during both his first and second presidential campaigns. However, recent surveys indicate growing skepticism among independent voters and some traditionally Republican-leaning demographic groups.
Immigration Remains Key Political Strength
While economic concerns have weakened support, immigration policy continues to bolster Trump’s position among Republican voters.
According to the AP-NORC poll, overall public approval of Trump’s immigration handling has improved compared with earlier this year, reaching roughly 45% nationally. Republican voters remain strongly supportive of stricter border enforcement and deportation policies championed by the administration.
The issue remains central to Trump’s broader political strategy heading into the 2026 midterm election cycle. Republican candidates aligned with Trump have continued emphasizing border security and immigration enforcement in competitive races nationwide.
At the same time, critics argue that aggressive deportation measures and expanded immigration crackdowns have triggered growing backlash in some sectors of American society, including business groups, educators, and civil rights organizations.
Iran Conflict and Foreign Policy Draw Mixed Reactions
The poll also highlighted continued public unease over Trump’s handling of foreign policy and the war involving Iran.
Only about one-third of Americans approve of Trump’s approach to Iran and foreign affairs overall, although Republican voters remain more supportive than the general public. Older Republicans were more likely to approve of Trump’s handling of the conflict than younger conservatives, according to earlier AP-NORC polling.
International observers noted that the Iran conflict has become increasingly intertwined with domestic economic concerns, particularly through energy markets and inflation. Analysts say prolonged instability in the Middle East could further complicate Trump’s political standing if economic pressures continue intensifying.
Despite weakening numbers on the economy, Trump continues to maintain significant influence over the Republican Party, demonstrated by the recent defeat of several prominent GOP critics in primary elections backed by Trump endorsements.
