A fresh Reuters survey released Friday shows that 78% of Americans hold the Trump administration responsible for the surge in living costs, a sentiment that cuts across party lines and poses a fresh electoral challenge for Republicans heading into November.
The poll, conducted online with a nationwide sample, found that 64% of Republicans, 76% of independents, and 95% of Democrats assign at least some blame to the White House for higher prices. The findings come as the administration's economic approval rating has taken a severe hit, driven by a combination of escalating tariffs on key trading partners and the ongoing military confrontation with Iran, which has disrupted global energy markets.
Economic approval at historic lows
According to the survey, 62% of Americans disapprove of President Trump's handling of the economy, including roughly a quarter of Republicans and 92% of Democrats. This level of discontent is striking for a president who campaigned on economic populism and promised to bring down prices.
The administration's tariff policies, particularly the ongoing trade dispute with Canada, have drawn criticism even from within the GOP. Michigan Senate candidate Mike Rogers this week urged the White House to end the economic fight with Canada “now,” a sign that the political fallout is spilling into competitive races. Some Republican candidates in tight contests are distancing themselves from the president on trade and other issues to protect their electoral prospects.
Household budgets squeezed
The poll also reveals that 57% of Republican respondents say their living costs are rising faster than their paychecks under the second Trump administration, a figure that jumps to two-thirds among the general population. This squeeze on household budgets is a central theme in the 2026 midterm elections, where control of Congress is at stake.
Energy prices have been a key driver of the inflation spike. The administration's military operations against Iran have effectively stalled oil trade through the Strait of Hormuz, sending gasoline and diesel prices soaring. AAA data shows regular gas averaged $4.37 per gallon on Friday, a more than 40% increase from a year ago, while diesel climbed to $6.28 per gallon.
Political implications for November
The combination of high prices and low approval ratings could weigh heavily on Republican candidates this fall. The president's wealth-building initiatives have drawn some bipartisan praise, but they have done little to offset the economic anxiety reflected in the poll.
The survey, conducted over six days and completed Monday, gathered responses from 4,506 U.S. adults. It has a margin of error of 2 percentage points for the general population and 3 points for each partisan group.
As the administration continues to navigate the Iran conflict and trade disputes, the economic fallout is becoming a central issue in the run-up to the elections. With other controversies also drawing attention, the White House faces an uphill battle to restore public confidence in its economic stewardship.
