Gallup poll finds Republican frustrations dragging national mood lower
New Gallup survey shows satisfaction with the country's direction at 29%, with Republicans posting the sharpest declines.
A new Gallup poll released Monday shows Americans' view of the country's direction declining in September, driven by Republicans reporting the largest drop in satisfaction. Overall, 29% of Americans said they are satisfied with the direction of the country, the lowest reading since Trump returned to office in January. Democratic satisfaction remained around 1%, and independents were about 23% satisfied. The results reflect a political mood that has shifted since the 2024 election cycle.
The decline was strongest among Republicans, with the share who were satisfied dropping from 76% in August to 68% in September. The survey was conducted Sept. 2 to 16 — a period that included the Sept. 10 killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
When asked to name the "most important problem facing this country," Americans cited crime and national unity as increasing concerns.
Trump's approval rating stood at 40%, roughly flat in recent months after dipping from 47% in February. By comparison, satisfaction during former President Joe Biden's final year in office hovered around 20%.
The poll surveyed 1,000 American adults nationwide, with a margin of error plus or minus four percentage points. Interviews were conducted by telephone.