Kathmandu: The popularity of U.S. President Donald Trump has declined significantly in the early phase of his second term. According to a recent Reuters/Ipsos survey, his approval rating has dropped to 36 percent due to the ongoing conflict with Iran and the surge in fuel prices. This marks the lowest point of his second term. His popularity fell by four percentage points from 40 percent in just one week.
Respondents expressed serious dissatisfaction with the military conflict involving Iran and the rising cost of daily necessities. Following a joint attack on Iran by the United States and Israel on February 28, global crude oil prices surged to $120 per barrel, directly impacting fuel prices in the United States.
Growing economic pressure and public frustration have significantly affected Trump’s approval rating. Only 25 percent of respondents expressed confidence in his economic management, contradicting his campaign promises to reduce inflation. Regarding the war with Iran, 61 percent of respondents opposed the conflict, stating that Trump has deviated from his campaign agenda of avoiding unnecessary wars.
Although Trump maintains support within the Republican Party, dissatisfaction among Republicans has also risen from 27 percent to 34 percent due to increasing inflation. Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has disrupted 20 percent of global oil supply, deepening the energy crisis not only in the United States but also in Asia and Europe.
Prominent figures associated with the “MAGA” movement, including former advisor Steve Bannon and commentator Tucker Carlson, have also begun pressuring Trump to end the war.
Political analysts suggest that this decline in popularity could significantly impact the Republican Party in the 2026 midterm elections. The White House, however, claims that peace negotiations are ongoing and fuel prices will stabilize soon.
