President Donald Trump faces significant public disapproval at 60% just days before delivering his State of the Union address, with Americans particularly critical of his handling of inflation and tariffs, according to a new Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll.

Poll Numbers Show Deep Divide

The survey of 2,589 adults conducted February 12-17 reveals Trump’s disapproval rating matches levels last seen after January 6, 2021. Only 39% approve of his presidential performance, with 47% expressing strong disapproval. The poll carries a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points, while New York Times polling averages show similar results at 56% disapproval.

Partisan divisions remain stark, with 85% of Republicans approving of Trump’s performance while 94% of Democrats and 69% of independents disapprove. These figures mirror October 2025 polling data, indicating consistent partisan attitudes heading into the 2026 primary season beginning March 3.

Policy Areas Drive Criticism

Trump receives his lowest marks on inflation, where 65% disapprove, and only 32% approve of his approach. Tariff policies also draw criticism, with 64% disapproval versus 34% approval. Immigration shows mixed results, with 58% disapproving overall, but southern border handling receives better marks at 47% approval to 50% disapproval.

What This Means Going Forward

Despite Trump’s low approval ratings, Democrats face their own challenges. Americans split evenly on trusting Trump versus congressional Democrats on immigration and cost-of-living issues. Both Trump and the Democratic Party received identical 64% ratings for being out of touch with voters. These numbers suggest complex political dynamics as Trump prepares his February 24 address to Congress, with neither party holding clear advantages on key voter concerns heading into primary season.