Trump's Approval Dips to New Low as Midterms Approach

President Donald Trump's approval rating has fallen to a new low of 31%, according to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll released just two weeks before the U.S. midterm elections. This marks a one-point drop from the previous poll and occurs amidst persistently high fuel prices, which Trump is attempting to lower through various means, including avoiding further escalation with Iran and seeking rapprochement with Russia. The current approval rating is the lowest recorded for Trump in Reuters/Ipsos polls during his presidency.

The poll also revealed a significant shift in general voting intentions for the congressional elections, with 47% favoring Democratic candidates and only 35% supporting Republicans, a 12-point gap that has widened considerably from the previous poll's 7-point difference. This suggests increased Democratic hopes of capturing not only the House of Representatives but also the Senate.

The surge in support for Democrats is attributed largely to women, with 50% now intending to vote Democrat compared to 32% for Republicans. While men also show a greater preference for Democrats, the margin is smaller. Economically, 68% of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with Trump's handling of the economy, including 37% of self-identified Republicans. High fuel prices, with gasoline averaging $4.30 per gallon and diesel at $6.30 per gallon, are a major contributing factor. The poll, which surveyed 1,679 U.S. adults, indicates that 40% believe Democrats will manage the economy better, compared to 33% for Republicans.

Amidst these challenges, Trump is actively campaigning for Republican candidates, including Senator Roger Marshall in Kansas, facing Democratic challenger Adam Hamilton. The midterm elections on November 3rd will determine control of both the House and Senate. Republicans currently hold slim majorities in both chambers. Concerns are high within the administration about losing control of Congress, which would significantly hinder Trump's remaining two years in office.

During a rally in Kansas, Trump continued his recent rhetoric, warning against open borders and the influx of Muslim immigrants, drawing parallels to recent events in France. He specifically targeted Abdulrahman El-Sayed, the Democratic candidate in a Michigan Senate race, referring to him as "Muhammad" and accusing him of being a "dangerous jihadist." El-Sayed, whose family has faced scrutiny over alleged ties to the Muslim Brotherhood, has denied these connections, comparing the accusations to those leveled against John F. Kennedy due to his Catholic faith. El-Sayed has also been criticized for his stance on Israel, stating in a recent interview that he does not believe Israel is a "friend" of the U.S., citing its use of American funds to push for wars and its actions in the region.