Poll finds Republicans back Trump on Iran amid lower economy approval

A new national poll shows that while economic concerns are growing among Republicans, the party's base continues to support President Donald Trump amid an ongoing conflict with Iran. The survey, conducted in mid-May, found that approximately six in ten Republicans approve of Trump's handling of the economy, a significant decline from about eight in ten in February before the war began.

The poll links this economic dissatisfaction directly to rising gasoline prices, which respondents connected to the conflict. The United States and Iran are currently struggling to move toward a permanent ceasefire. Despite this economic frustration, the president's political strength within his party appears undiminished, evidenced by a recent primary victory of a Trump-endorsed candidate over a Republican critic.

Among all U.S. adults, only about one-third approve of Trump's economic management, a figure consistent with late April but down from 40 percent at the start of his second term. The economy had been a strength during his first term, but approval has faced skepticism since his return to office last year. The decline is particularly sharp among Republicans, falling from 79 percent in...