NBC Poll Shows 60% Trump Disapproval as Democrats Lead 2026 Race by 7 Points

President Donald Trump’s national disapproval rating reached 60 percent in a new NBC News survey, marking the highest level recorded during his two terms in office. His approval rating stands at 40 percent. This sentiment coincides with a seven point Democratic advantage in the race for Congress ahead of the general election.

The survey, conducted between October 28 and October 30, shows registered voters prefer a Democratic controlled Congress by a 52 to 45 percent margin. This lead is up two points from the previous month’s polling. Among independent voters, the Democratic preference holds a 21 point edge. Three percent of respondents described themselves as undecided. Jeff Horwitt, the Democratic pollster at Hart Research Associates, characterized the political moment as a clash between past promises and immediate danger.

Economic dissatisfaction drives much of the voter frustration. Roughly three out of four voters reported being unhappy with the economic situation. Fifty percent of respondents demanded a deep change in the country’s direction, a new high for NBC News data. For the first time in 30 years, more voters stated they were dissatisfied with their personal finances than satisfied. Bill McInturff, the Republican pollster from Public Opinion Strategies, noted that Democrats currently control the agenda for the year.

Voters cite inflation and the cost of living as the top national issues. This is followed by concerns over government corruption, threats to democracy, immigration, and border security. Sixty four percent of voters, including one third of Trump supporters, believe the president has not met their expectations. Seventy percent stated the nation is on the wrong track, a nine point increase from the previous year. Inflation remains the primary concern despite the administration’s focus on other areas.

The Republican Party faces internal divisions and external headwinds. In districts and states Trump won in 2024, his approval is now negative, with 53 percent disapproving versus 47 percent approving. This is a 10 point drop since March 2025. Republicans in these areas remain supportive of their party, yet 37 percent of them believe Trump has failed to deliver on his promises. Non MAGA Republicans show even more erosion, with 46 percent disapproving of the president’s performance.

Democrats face their own challenges despite the national lead. Only 29 percent of voters hold a positive view of the Democratic Party, compared to 38 percent for the Republicans. The party struggles with image, as many voters rejecting the current majority do so out of frustration rather than enthusiasm for the opposition. In specific policy areas, Republicans maintain a two point advantage on the economy. However, Democrats lead by one point on inflation management and by five points on handling issues related to transgender persons.

Voter engagement levels are high for this mid term cycle. Seventy percent of respondents rated their interest in the election at nine or ten on a 10 point scale. Democrats hold a 12 point lead among these highly engaged voters. House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana maintains the highest positive rating among congressional leaders, with 24 percent favorable opinions. The survey indicates that while the political map favors Republicans in many key states, the current level of disapproval may force Democrats to win contested races to secure control of both chambers.