New Poll Shows Majority of Americans Believe Trump Is Focused on the Wrong Issues

Key Points

• A new CNN poll finds 68% of Americans believe President Donald Trump is not prioritizing the country’s most important problems.
• Only 32% of respondents said Trump has the right priorities.
• The survey was conducted February 17–20, 2026 among 2,496 adults, with a margin of error of 2.5 points.
• Concerns about affordability and cost of living remain central for voters.
• Trump’s approval rating currently averages 41.7%, with 56.3% disapproval.

Poll Results Ahead of State of the Union

Released just days before Trump’s State of the Union address, the poll highlights growing dissatisfaction with the administration’s agenda. Nearly seven in ten respondents said Trump “hasn’t paid enough attention to the country’s most important problems,” while less than a third felt he was focused on the right priorities.

The findings arrive at a critical moment as Trump prepares to outline his administration’s direction in a nationally televised address.

Economic Concerns Dominate Voter Sentiment

Affordability and rising living costs remain top concerns for voters. Senate Republicans have warned that the party must sharpen its focus on “kitchen-table issues” ahead of the 2026 midterms.

Trump, however, has dismissed criticism that his administration has neglected economic pressures. Speaking at a steel fabricator in Rome, Georgia, he said: “I have to listen to the fake news talk about ‘affordability, affordability.’ Do you notice what word you have not heard over the last two weeks? Affordability. Because I’ve won. I’ve won affordability.”

Additional Political Strains

The poll comes amid several challenges for Trump and Republicans, including:

• Renewed scrutiny of files connected to Jeffrey Epstein.
• Two deaths involving federal immigration authorities in Minnesota.
• Recent Democratic election wins adding pressure ahead of the midterms.

These controversies have intensified political strain as Trump seeks to rally support.

Approval Ratings Remain Low

Beyond the latest poll, Trump’s broader approval metrics show continued challenges. According to Decision Desk HQ, his approval rating stands at 41.7%, while 56.3% disapprove of his performance.

What Happens Next?

With the midterms approaching, Trump faces mounting pressure to address voter concerns about affordability and everyday economic issues. His upcoming State of the Union address will be closely watched to see whether he pivots toward those priorities—or continues to emphasize other aspects of his agenda.