Trump may be in political trouble, but Trump-style global populism isn’t

While President Donald Trump's approval ratings have experienced a significant decline, falling to an average of 36-37% by August 2026, the broader movement of Trump-style global populism appears to maintain its strength. Recent polls from early October 2026 indicate even lower approval figures for Trump, with one showing 32% and another at 39%, positioning him among the most unpopular presidents at this stage of a second term. This dip in personal approval is also reflected in a reported decrease of populist sentiment among his 2024 voters.

Despite these challenges to Trump's personal standing, the underlying currents that fuel populism continue to resonate internationally. Global surveys from 2025 and 2026 highlight a widespread sense of social, economic, and political decline across numerous countries, with a majority of citizens worldwide believing their nations are in decline or that society is broken. This pervasive pessimism and a desire for "strong leaders that break the rules" contribute to the ongoing appeal of populist ideologies.

Indeed, right-populist movements and parties are reportedly gaining strength in various parts of the world, suggesting that the core tenets of Trump-style populism—characterized by nationalist narratives and anti-elite sentiment—remain a potent political force. Therefore, while President Trump himself faces significant political headwinds, the broader populist movement he embodies seems to persist as a powerful and growing global trend.