Trump Approval Still Underwater at 42% as MAGA Support Slips, NBC Poll Shows
President Trump’s overall job approval remains underwater, according to the latest NBC News/SurveyMonkey poll showing 42% of U.S. adults approve of his performance while 58% disapprove of how he’s leading the country. The results, released this week, matter because they reflect continued public skepticism as Republicans prepare for the 2026 midterm elections.
The poll highlights rising tension within Trump’s own party, with fewer Republicans identifying as part of the MAGA movement than earlier this year and with enthusiasm among the MAGA base declining since April. That erosion of core support could complicate Republican efforts to mobilize voters.
Conducted online from Nov. 20 to Dec. 8, 2025, the survey interviewed 20,252 adults with a margin of error of ±1.9 points, showing a broad disapproval margin among all adults that aligns with other recent polling.
Follow The Coffman Chronicle on NewsBreak for daily breaking political coverage.
Despite high name recognition and continued GOP backing overall, the poll also suggests the MAGA segment’s identification with Trump has cooled, with only about half of self-identified Republicans now calling themselves MAGA supporters.
“NBC’s latest data signals cracks in what was once a rock-solid base,” said NBC data analyst Steve Kornacki.
This matters because slipping enthusiasm among core voters could impact turnout and party unity in primary challenges and general elections. Voter discontent on issues like the economy and affordability appears to be a key driver of these ratings.
As attention turns to 2026 election strategies, Republicans may adjust messaging to shore up support among independents and disaffected MAGA identifiers. Campaigns and party leaders are expected to release updated plans in early 2026. More polling is scheduled through the winter.
The evolving approval picture will continue shaping political narratives into next year.
Follow The Coffman Chronicle on NewsBreak for daily breaking political coverage.