Trump approval rating hits 33 percent, new low amid Iran war fears

President Donald Trump's job approval rating has fallen to 33 percent, the lowest level of his current term, as a strong majority of Americans believe the U.S. war with Iran will last for an extended period, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released on August 17, 2026. The survey, conducted from August 14 to August 17, found that 64 percent of U.S. adults disapproved of the president's performance.

The decline represents a 2-point drop from an earlier poll this month and puts his approval at the same level as the lowest point recorded during his first term in December 2017. The primary factor cited for the downturn is the prolonged conflict with Iran, which began in February. About 80 percent of respondents, including majorities of both Democrats and Republicans, think U.S. involvement will continue for a long time. Only 16 percent said the war was likely to end in a few weeks, a timeframe President Trump initially suggested.

The war has had significant economic repercussions, particularly at the gas pump. Prices for gasoline have risen sharply since the conflict began, a burden felt by voters as they weigh their financial situations. This has shifted voter trust on economic...