Trump support slips one year into presidency

Some voters in Pennsylvania say their expectations for President Donald Trump have not been met one year into his term, and national polls show his approval rating has fallen.

Support for President Donald Trump has softened in parts of Pennsylvania about a year after he took office. Several residents interviewed cited ongoing worries about the cost of living and changes to welfare programs. National polling shows a decline in approval since the inauguration. The trend is notable because places such as Bucks County were important in the 2024 result. Key facts: - Some voters in Bucks County described only partial support for the president; Michelle Sims, who uses a local food bank, said she backed him "to a certain extent" and had hoped for more action on affordability. - A Gallup poll reported Mr. Trump’s approval rating at 36 percent, down from 47 percent when he took office. - A wave of Democratic candidates won local races in Bucks County in 2025; newly elected Democratic sheriff Danny Ceisler said voters want government that works and not chaos. - The president has returned to campaign-style rallies as attention turns toward the 2026 midterm elections. Summary: Local expressions of disappointment about the cost of living have coincided with lower national approval figures and recent Democratic gains in local Pennsylvania contests. The 2026 midterm elections will determine which party controls Congress.