In a significant shift, Gallup has announced that it will cease its monthly presidential approval polls after more than 80 years of tracking American political sentiment. This decision, effective from 2026, comes as President Donald Trump faces persistently low approval ratings. A spokesperson for the polling firm attributed the change to a strategic realignment of its research objectives, rather than external pressures from the White House.
A Historical Perspective
Founded in 1935 during the Great Depression, Gallup has been a cornerstone of American political polling, offering insights into public opinion. The organisation has recorded presidential approval ratings since at least 1945, making it one of the most trusted sources for gauging political sentiment. The decision to discontinue these polls marks a notable moment in the landscape of American political research.
Trump’s approval rating, recorded at 36 per cent in December 2025, reflects a stagnation that has persisted since November. Earlier in his presidency, he experienced a higher approval rating of 47 per cent in February 2025, but his lowest recorded approval, 34 per cent, was in January 2021—the month marked by the Capitol riots. In comparison, former President Harry Truman holds the record for the lowest approval rating at just 22 per cent in February 1952.
The Impact of Polling on Politics
Polling has long been a contentious topic in American politics, with Trump frequently challenging the validity of surveys that portray his support unfavourably. In a recent post on Truth Social, he labelled certain polls as “fake and fraudulent,” arguing that they misrepresent his standing. Despite his criticisms, Trump has occasionally pointed to polls that favour him, demonstrating the complex relationship between political figures and public opinion research.
In December 2024, he filed a lawsuit against Iowa pollster Ann Selzer and The Des Moines Register, disputing a poll that suggested Vice President Kamala Harris was leading in Iowa. This lawsuit was later withdrawn in June 2025, illustrating the contentious nature of polling data in shaping political narratives.
A Shift in Gallup’s Strategy
Gallup’s decision to halt its monthly presidential polls is presented as part of a broader initiative to align its public work with its core mission. The firm emphasised its commitment to providing independent research that meets rigorous social science standards. This strategic pivot reflects evolving priorities in the realm of data collection and analysis, particularly in an era where public opinion can shift rapidly in response to political events.
Why it Matters
The discontinuation of Gallup’s presidential polls not only marks the end of an era but also raises questions about the future of political polling in the United States. As public sentiment continues to fluctuate, the absence of consistent presidential approval ratings from such a respected institution could alter how political analysts interpret voter behaviour and electoral outcomes. In an increasingly polarized political climate, understanding public opinion is crucial, and the evolution of polling methodologies will undoubtedly shape the narrative of American politics in the years to come.
