President Donald Trump’s approval rating among independent voters has reached a record low, with a net approval rating of -22 percent in 2025, surpassing his previous low of -16 percent in 2017. This is significant as independent voters often determine the outcome of national elections and the low approval rating could signal trouble for Republicans in the 2026 midterms. In the 2024 election, Trump garnered 46 percent of independent voters’ support, but since then, his approval among this group has steadily declined, particularly following his tariff announcement on April 2.
Polling data indicates that Trump’s approval among independents currently stands at -17 points, with only 37 percent approving of his performance and 54 percent disapproving. On the tariff issue, only 37 percent of independents support Trump’s new duties, while 49 percent are opposed. The majority of independents are also pessimistic about the broader economy, with 26 percent believing it is on the right track. Concerns about inflation are also prevalent among independent voters, with 68 percent opposing Trump’s handling of inflation.
There are growing concerns about the impact of Trump’s tariffs on the economy, with the chief executive of Goldman Sachs warning of increased chances of a recession and material risks for U.S. and global growth. These economic anxieties seem to be driving Trump’s declining approval among independent voters. Despite his more favorable standing among Democrats and Republicans, it is independent voters who are moving the numbers, with many feeling that the economy is not heading in the right direction under Trump’s leadership.
As Trump’s economic policies and other major decisions continue to unfold, his approval rating among independent voters is likely to continue fluctuating. The decline in his approval rating among this key voting bloc could have significant implications for the upcoming midterms and beyond. It remains to be seen how Trump will navigate these challenges and whether he can regain the support of independent voters in the future.
