New Delhi: US President Donald Trump’s popularity is steadily declining. According to a Reuters and Ipsos poll, only 31 percent of Americans are satisfied with his performance. This is the lowest level in both his presidential terms. These figures, coming ahead of the midterm elections in the US on November 3, have increased the concerns of Trump’s Republican Party.
The survey shows the Democratic Party has a 12-point lead over the Republican Party in the congressional elections. Trump’s popularity has dropped by another one percentage point compared to two weeks ago. Meanwhile, if congressional elections were held today, 47 percent of registered voters say they would vote for the Democratic Party, while only 35 percent support the Republican Party.
These results strengthen the Democratic Party’s hopes of securing a majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. If the Republican Party loses control of even one of these chambers, it could be difficult for Trump to advance his agenda.
Democrats have a bigger lead among women voters
The survey cited a significant decline in support for Republican candidates among female voters. Nearly 50% of women said they would vote for the Democratic Party, while 32% preferred Republican candidates. Democrats had an 18-point lead among women. The Democratic Party also held a lead among male voters.
Position of Trump and the Republican Party (figures in percentage)
- Americans satisfied with Trump’s performance – 31
- Americans dissatisfied with Trump – 69
- Democratic Party voters – 47
- Republican voters – 35
- Democrats lead – 12
- Democrats’ support in the first survey: 44
- Republican support in the first survey – 37
- Dissatisfied with Trump’s economic policies – 68
Iran war and expensive petrol worsening the equation
The Iran war and rising fuel prices are believed to be a major reason for Trump’s decline in popularity. In February, Trump ordered a military attack on Iran in collaboration with Israel. The resulting war led to a spike in gasoline prices.
Democrats trying to capture both houses
The midterm elections will see votes cast for seats in the House of Representatives and the Senate. The Democratic Party is aiming to win a majority in both chambers. If that happens, it could make it challenging for Trump to implement his policies and legislative agenda during the remaining two years of his term.
