Six graphs that show why Trump is in deep trouble in the midterms

Republicans are heading into the midterms in a weak position, with President Donald Trump's standing sinking as Americans feel the squeeze of higher prices tied to his war on Iran and his tariff policies. The Independent reports that Democrats hold narrow-to-comfortable leads in most Senate battlegrounds, and that some formerly safe Republican states could flip.

Polling backs up the gloom. A Reuters/Ipsos survey put Trump's overall rating at 32%, and registered voters favored Democrats over Republicans on the generic congressional ballot, 47% to 36%. Pew Research Center found approval of his economic performance at 21%, the lowest of his second term. Just 36% of Republicans call the economy in good shape, down from 41% in July, and 65% of Americans say his policies have worsened conditions, versus 19% who say they have helped.

The economic data explain the mood. Annual inflation hit 4.2% in May 2026 and stood at 3.7% in September. Gas prices peaked at a 40.5% yearly increase in May after two months of war, and drivers now pay an average of $66.86 more monthly for unleaded than in October 2025. Only 26% expect conditions to improve over the coming year.

Summarized by PolitiKool from The Independent’s reporting. Read the full story at The Independent →