President Donald Trump remains the unquestioned leader of the Republican Party, but a new national poll suggests some conservative voters are growing concerned about two major issues: the economy and the escalating conflict with Iran.
With the 2026 midterm elections drawing closer, Democrats are hoping to capitalize on rising gas prices and continued economic strain. At the same time, President Trump continues to dominate Republican primaries and maintain a powerful hold over the GOP base.
New Poll Reveals Concerns Among Republican Voters
A new survey from the Associated Press and NORC at the University of Chicago found that 37% of Republicans disapprove of President Trump’s handling of the economy.
That is the highest level of economic dissatisfaction among Republican voters recorded in this polling series.
The poll also found that 30% of Republicans disapprove of Trump’s management of the Iran conflict.
The survey was conducted from May 14 to May 18 among 1,117 adults nationwide and has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.8 percentage points.
Why the Economy Remains the Top Issue
For most Americans, kitchen-table concerns still matter more than anything else.
Although inflation has slowed from the severe spikes seen during the Biden administration, many families continue to struggle with high prices for groceries, utilities, healthcare, and housing.
Retirees living on fixed incomes are especially sensitive to changes in fuel and food costs.
Gas Prices Climb as Middle East Tensions Grow
Energy prices have once again become a major political issue.
According to AAA, the national average price for regular gasoline reached $4.555 per gallon.
Drivers in states such as California are paying even more, with statewide averages above $6 per gallon.
The increase comes as global oil markets react to instability around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route that carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.
White House Says Trump’s Policies Will Deliver Relief
The Trump administration says Americans should remain confident.
White House spokesman Kush Desai said the economy has remained resilient and argued that President Trump’s agenda on housing, healthcare, and energy will continue to lower costs for families.
Administration officials emphasize that increasing domestic energy production and cutting regulations are essential to restoring long-term affordability.
Trump’s Overall Approval Shows Improvement
Despite criticism from Democrats and media outlets, President Trump’s overall approval rating improved compared with the previous month.
The AP-NORC poll found that 37% of Americans approve of his job performance, up from 33% in April.
While national polls remain mixed, the upward movement suggests Trump is maintaining significant support even amid intense political battles.
Trump Continues to Dominate Republican Primaries
Perhaps the most important political trend is President Trump’s continued control over the Republican Party.
In recent primary elections, Trump-backed candidates secured several major victories, proving that his endorsement remains one of the most valuable assets in conservative politics.
For Republican voters, Trump is still seen as the strongest voice for secure borders, lower taxes, American energy independence, and a tougher foreign policy.
Other Polls Paint a Similar Picture
Several recent national surveys show a competitive political environment:
Reuters/Ipsos
- Approval: 35%
- Disapproval: 63%
Echelon Insights
- Approval: 40%
- Disapproval: 59%
YouGov/The Economist
- Approval: 37%
- Disapproval: 57%
New York Times/Siena College
- Approval: 37%
- Disapproval: 59%
Polling results vary, but they consistently show that Trump remains a central and highly influential figure in American politics.
Midterm Elections Will Be a Critical Test
Historically, the president’s party often loses seats in midterm elections.
Democrats are aggressively targeting economic concerns in hopes of reclaiming the House of Representatives.
Republicans, however, are counting on Trump’s loyal voter base, strong candidate recruitment, and a clear America First message to hold their majorities.
House Republicans Advance Lower-Cost Fuel Plan
Republicans in Congress are working to reduce fuel costs.
The House recently passed legislation allowing year-round sales of E15 gasoline, also known as Unleaded 88.
Because E15 is often less expensive than standard fuel blends, supporters say the change could save consumers money while strengthening demand for American-grown ethanol.
Democrats Push Political Narrative on Gas Prices
Democratic leaders have blamed Republican foreign policy for higher prices at the pump.
Conservatives argue that the real answer is expanding domestic drilling, reducing dependence on hostile nations, and restoring full American energy independence.
President Trump has said oil prices could fall quickly if a diplomatic agreement stabilizes the region and shipping lanes reopen.
What This Means for Conservative Voters
The latest polling highlights legitimate concerns among some Republican voters about rising prices and global instability.
At the same time, President Trump remains firmly in command of the GOP and continues to shape the party’s direction heading into the 2026 midterms.
If gas prices ease and economic conditions improve, Republicans could enter Election Day with a much stronger position.
Bottom Line
Some Republicans are voicing concerns about the economy and the Iran conflict, but President Trump’s influence inside the GOP remains as strong as ever.
With his endorsement continuing to drive primary victories and his America First agenda still energizing millions of voters, Trump is poised to be the defining figure in the battle for control of Congress.
For conservatives watching the months ahead, the key question is simple: can lower prices and stronger economic momentum arrive in time to give Republicans another major victory in November?