President Donald Trump’s approval rating remains near the lowest point of his political career as growing concerns over fuel costs and economic pressures continue to shape public opinion, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos survey.
The poll, released Monday, found that 35% of Americans approve of Trump’s performance in the White House. That figure sits only slightly above the 34% approval ratings recorded in April and mid-May, marking one of the weakest periods of his second term. It also approaches the lowest approval level of his first presidency, when he reached 33% in December 2017.
The latest numbers arrive as Americans grapple with the financial impact of the ongoing conflict involving Iran. Many respondents expressed concern that gasoline prices will continue climbing over the next year, adding to existing worries about affordability and household expenses.
According to the survey, 60% of Americans expect gas prices to worsen during the coming year. Only 17% believe prices will improve, while 23% said they expect little change or remain uncertain about where prices are headed.
Energy markets have faced disruption since the outbreak of the Iran war on Feb. 28. Concerns over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, have raised fears of supply shortages and sustained pressure on fuel prices.
Despite those concerns, drivers have recently seen some relief at the pump. Data from AAA showed the national average price for a gallon of gasoline stood at $4.24 on Monday, down 18 cents from the previous week. Before the conflict intensified in late February, the national average was below $3 per gallon.
Analysts say uncertainty surrounding the future of the Strait of Hormuz remains a major factor influencing oil markets. Although negotiations between Washington and Tehran continue, questions remain about when shipping traffic through the waterway will fully return to normal. Higher summer demand for fuel could also limit any significant decline in prices.
The Trump administration has described elevated energy costs as a temporary consequence of the conflict. Officials argue that prices should ease if a diplomatic agreement is reached and have floated proposals such as eliminating federal gas taxes to reduce costs for consumers.
Trump has also defended his focus on national security concerns during negotiations with Iran. Addressing questions about the economic impact of the conflict in May, he told reporters, “I don’t think about Americans’ financial situations,” while negotiating with Iran. “Not even a little bit.
“I don’t think about anybody,” he continued. “I think about one thing: We cannot let Iran have a nuclear weapon.”
Political observers note that economic conditions have historically played a major role in voter sentiment. With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, inflation concerns, fuel costs, and broader affordability issues could remain central challenges for the administration.
The Reuters/Ipsos poll surveyed 4,531 U.S. adults online between June 3 and June 8. Researchers reported a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points.
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