Survey Reveals Americans Hold President Accountable for Rising Gas Prices
With the constant increase in gas prices, a significant majority of Americans are feeling the pinch, and they're pointing fingers at the President for their financial discomfort. This sentiment was revealed in a recent survey.
President's Popularity Takes a Hit
The same survey also brought to light the declining popularity of the President, with his disapproval ratings at an all-time high. The common consensus among Americans is that the economy isn't benefiting them, and the ongoing conflict in Iran — a major contributor to the gas price hike — is receiving increasing disapproval.
This state of affairs seems to be favoring Democrats in the upcoming midterm elections. If voting were to occur today, the survey indicates that Democrats would have an advantage of 10 points on the congressional ballot. It's essential to note that enthusiasm for voting generally wanes during midterm years, making it unpredictable who will show up to vote, as independents and several groups crucial to both parties aren't particularly motivated.
President's Approval Ratings at Lowest Ever
Only 37% of the survey participants approve of the President's overall performance, while a staggering 59% disapprove. This is the highest disapproval rate the President has seen during his tenure. A deeper look into the data shows significant declines among key voter groups, including those in the South, those earning under $50,000 annually, white men and women without college degrees, millennials, parents of children under 18, rural voters, and men in small cities and suburbs.
Even the President's standing among Republicans has weakened. Previously, in February 2025, 88% approved of his performance, while 10% disapproved, a net rating of +78. Now, approval sits at 81% and disapproval at 18%, a net rating of +63, indicating a 15-point net drop in just over a year.
Factors Contributing to the Decline
Several events over the past year have contributed to the President's declining approval ratings. These include his tariffs, the continuous higher-than-normal prices post-pandemic, and the current gas price increase due to the Iran conflict.
Only 35% of the participants approve of the President's handling of the economy. Among the factors causing distress for Americans:
- Gas prices have jumped to an average of $4.48 per gallon nationwide, a significant increase from the pre-war prices of under $3 per gallon.
- 81% of respondents said current gas prices are straining their household budgets, including 79% of Republicans.
- By a 63%-37% margin, respondents blame the President for the current rise in gas prices, including a third of Republicans.
- The same percentage noted that the economy is not working well for them personally.
- 56% of the respondents said their area is not very affordable.
Democrats Maintain Advantage in Midterm Elections
If congressional elections were held today, 52% of the respondents said they would vote for a Democratic candidate in their district, a 10-point lead over Republicans. This margin is significant and could indicate a potential wave election. However, gerrymandering and other factors have led to fewer competitive seats than before.
Enthusiasm among voters also favors Democrats. 61% of Democrats compared to 53% of Republicans expressed being "very enthusiastic" to vote. The enthusiasm gap is even wider between those who voted for Democrat Kamala Harris and those who voted for the President in 2024 (61% vs. 47%).
Additional Findings on Voter ID and Age in Politics
The survey also brought to light other interesting findings:
- 74% of respondents support requiring a government-issued photo ID to vote, including 51% of Democrats.
- 65% of participants are in favor of showing a passport or birth certificate to register to vote.