Trump's Approval Crashes
65% of Americans say his policies worsened the economy, as he lets bipartisan housing bill become law without signature
The Trump presidency has been marked by a lack of control and constant distractions, with voters increasingly disapproving of his policies and handling of key issues. A CNN poll released in July 2026 found that 65% of respondents said Trump's policies had worsened the economy, while only 28% approved of his handling of Iran.
The poll also revealed that only 27% of adults believe Trump has the right priorities, down from 45% when his term began. Furthermore, a record 73% of adults said Trump hasn’t paid enough attention to the country’s most important issues.
In a significant development, a bipartisan housing bill aimed at addressing high costs reached Trump's desk in June 2026. However, in a notable move, Trump let the bill become law without his signature in July 2026.
## Why it matters The president's inability to focus on key issues may pose a problem for Republicans in the 2026 elections. The constant distractions and lack of control have led to a decline in Trump's approval ratings, with voters increasingly questioning his ability to lead the country effectively.
The bipartisan housing bill becoming law without Trump's signature is a significant indicator of the president's waning influence. The bill's passage without his support suggests that lawmakers are willing to work around the president to address pressing issues, further eroding his authority.
As the 2026 elections approach, the Republican party will need to reassess its strategy and consider the impact of Trump's presidency on their chances of success. The CNN poll's findings, combined with the president's handling of key issues, may prove to be a significant challenge for the party in the upcoming elections.
## What happens next The outcome of the 2026 elections will depend on various factors, including the Republican party's ability to distance themselves from Trump's unpopular policies and the Democrats' ability to capitalize on the president's weaknesses. As the elections draw near, voters will be watching closely to see how the parties respond to the challenges posed by the Trump presidency.
