WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump's approval rating has fallen to its lowest level of his current presidency as voters express increasing concern about the prolonged war with Iran and the broader economy.
The decline comes as the administration enters an increasingly difficult political period ahead of the November midterm elections.
Iran War Becomes Political Liability
A Reuters/Ipsos poll found Trump's approval rating at approximately 33%, with a large majority of Americans expressing concern that the war with Iran could continue for a long time.
The conflict has now lasted roughly six months, far longer than the administration initially suggested.
The war has also contributed to disruption in global energy markets and higher gasoline prices.
Those economic consequences could become increasingly important to voters.
Gasoline is one of the most visible household expenses, meaning price increases can quickly affect public perceptions of the economy.
Trump has attempted to address the issue through increased domestic production and the new Venezuela oil agreement.
But any increase in Venezuelan production would likely take time.
The political challenge extends beyond energy prices.
Trump's administration must also defend its broader foreign-policy strategy.
The president has argued that military pressure is necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
Critics question whether the United States has a clear strategy for ending the conflict.
Republicans facing competitive congressional races could find themselves under pressure to defend the administration while addressing voter concerns about the economy.
Democrats are likely to argue that the war demonstrates the risks of prolonged military involvement overseas.
The midterm elections will provide an important test of whether voters are willing to punish the governing party for economic and foreign-policy problems.
Trump remains highly influential within the Republican Party.
But declining approval ratings could make the campaign environment more difficult for candidates in competitive districts.
