President Donald Trump is facing a rare challenge from within his own party as a new nationwide poll shows his disapproval rating among Republicans has reached double digits for the first time — a development that could shake up the GOP ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
According to the latest Quinnipiac University survey, 10% of registered Republicans now disapprove of Trump’s job performance. While 86% still strongly support him, the growing discontent signals a potential warning sign for the Republican Party as Democrats look to regain power.
This milestone marks the first time in Quinnipiac’s history that GOP disapproval of Trump has crossed into double digits.
Why It Matters for 2026 Midterms
Trump’s America First movement has been built on a foundation of strong Republican loyalty. Even a slight dip in support could cost Republicans critical House and Senate races, giving Democrats a chance to flip key districts.
Poll numbers show a slow upward trend in GOP dissatisfaction:
- July: 8% of Republicans disapproved of Trump.
- August: That number rose to 9%.
- September: It has now reached 10%, the highest ever recorded.
These subtle shifts could snowball into a bigger problem for the GOP if not addressed before campaign season heats up.
Other Key Figures Under the Microscope
The survey didn’t just look at Trump — it also measured Republican opinions of other top administration officials, revealing additional areas of concern:
- Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. – 11% GOP disapproval.
- FBI Director Kash Patel – 10% disapproval.
- U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi – 11% disapproval.
These ratings indicate growing unease among conservatives, particularly regarding federal agencies and healthcare policies.
Trump’s National Approval Rating
Among all voters nationwide, Trump faces a much tougher landscape:
- 38% approve of his performance as president.
- 54% disapprove, including 93% of Democrats who strongly oppose him.
Other recent polls show similar trends:
- Echelon Insights Poll (Sept. 18-22): Disapproval rose to 53%, while approval dipped to 45%.
- YouGov/Economist Poll: Trump’s approval dropped to 39%, with 57% disapproving — the lowest level ever recorded for him by this pollster.
Expert Warning: GOP Could Be at Risk
Political analyst William F. Hall of Webster University told Newsweek that these numbers should concern Republicans heading into 2026:
“If negative trends continue, Democrats could score a major victory in the midterms, flipping the House and gaining power,” Hall warned.
“Voters are deeply concerned about inflation, the economy, and leadership. If the GOP doesn’t solidify its message, Democrats will exploit that weakness.”
The Bottom Line
While Trump remains hugely popular within the Republican Party, the slow increase in GOP disapproval is a warning sign that Democrats and the media will exploit.
For now, Trump dominates the GOP, but Republicans must stay unified and focused if they hope to hold Congress and stop Democrat control in 2026.
Conservatives nationwide will be watching closely to see if Trump can keep his base energized and prevent cracks from widening within the party.