In the recent United States midterm elections, President Donald Trump faced significant disapproval, with 62% of voters expressing dissatisfaction with his performance, while only 38% showed approval. These figures come from initial results of a national exit poll.
The data was shared by NBC News during their live election coverage. However, these numbers are preliminary and may evolve as more responses are collected.
The poll also highlights that 59% of voters felt Trump had an impact on their voting choice, whether in support or opposition to his presidency. Notably, 43% of participants stated they voted to express disapproval of the president, compared to 16% who voted to show support.
This disparity underscores that among those who cited Trump as a factor in their voting decision, rejection outweighed support.
Economic Concerns Dominate Voter Sentiment
The president's evaluation is additionally marred by economic issues. Another study from the same poll, conducted by Patrick J. Egan for NBC News, reveals a significant portion of voters blame the administration for rising costs of essentials like food, gas, and basic utilities.
A staggering 44% of respondents indicated their economic situation has deteriorated over the past two years, with only 18% reporting improvements in their personal finances. Moreover, 79% mentioned that inflation is causing financial strain on their families, and 62% blamed Trump for the high prices.
Nearly two-thirds of those surveyed believe the president's policies have harmed the U.S. economy, and 65% argue that his tariffs are detrimental to the country.
Historical Context and Comparisons
Preliminary results show Trump's approval rating falling below his first midterm elections in 2018, where 45% of voters approved of his leadership. It also falls short of the 50% approval he garnered during the 2020 presidential elections. According to NBC News, the current 38% approval is the lowest for a sitting president on an election day since 2008, when George W. Bush received 27%.
Even before the election, Trump's disapproval ratings had climbed. An NBC News poll in April reported a 63% disapproval among American adults, citing inflation and conflict with Iran as major concerns. In October, another survey by NBC News and Telemundo noted a decline in Trump's support among registered Latino voters, with only 27% approving his leadership and 78% disapproving of his handling of the cost of living.
These earlier surveys assessed different groups and should not be conflated with the exit poll released on Tuesday, which gathers responses from actual voters.
Methodology and Scope of the Exit Poll
The NBC News exit poll, conducted by the SSRS firm for a consortium of news organizations, including ABC News, Associated Press, CBS News, CNN, Fox News, and MS NOW, involves both in-person interviews at polling stations and phone, mail, and online surveys of early and absentee voters. While all networks receive the same data, each performs its own analysis.
This national sample aims to cover over 75,000 participants across all 50 states, with in-person interviews at more than 450 polling stations in 15 states with competitive Senate races. Participants can respond in English or Spanish, and their responses remain anonymous. Data is updated throughout election night as new interviews are conducted and estimates are adjusted.
The poll provides insights into the opinions and motivations of the voters but does not equate to the ballot count or independently determine the outcomes of congressional elections.
Key Insights from the 2026 Midterm Exit Poll
What percentage of voters disapprove of Trump's performance in the 2026 midterms?
According to the exit poll, 62% of voters disapprove of Trump's performance.
How has Trump's approval rating changed since the 2018 midterm elections?
Trump's approval rating has decreased from 45% in the 2018 midterms to 38% in 2026.
What economic issues are voters concerned about in relation to Trump's policies?
Voters are particularly concerned about inflation, rising costs of food, gas, and basic services, with many attributing these issues to Trump's administration.