President Donald Trump’s approval rating sits at 37% as Americans broadly reject his handling of Iran, according to a new AP-NORC poll that shows the Middle East deal has done little to improve his standing with voters.
The survey, conducted June 11-17, found 62% of Americans disapprove of Trump’s overall job performance—virtually unchanged from May. On Iran specifically, 65% disapprove of his approach, even as the president announced a preliminary agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and pause hostilities.
The 14-point memorandum of understanding, signed Wednesday, reopens critical shipping lanes and establishes 60 days of negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. But the deal has drawn fire from both parties in Congress, with some Republicans joining Democrats in questioning whether Trump gave away too much.
Republican Senator Invokes Reagan’s Name
“Ronald Reagan is rolling over in his grave,” said Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA), reflecting concerns among some GOP lawmakers that the agreement represents a retreat from strength.
The polling shows sharp partisan divides. While Democrats and independents overwhelmingly disapprove of Trump’s Iran policy, Republicans remain more supportive—though 28% of GOP voters also express disapproval, a notable crack in the president’s base on foreign policy.
Deal Ends Naval Blockade, Sets Nuclear Talks
The agreement concludes the U.S. naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for global oil shipments, and establishes a framework for addressing Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Trump called off earlier threats to escalate tensions shortly before the poll’s field period began.
The timing suggests Americans remain skeptical of the administration’s Iran strategy despite the de-escalation. Trump’s approval on the issue tracks almost exactly with his overall job rating, indicating Iran has become a defining issue for how voters view his presidency.
With 60 days of negotiations ahead, Trump faces pressure to secure concrete limits on Iran’s nuclear program while managing criticism from lawmakers who worry he’s negotiating from weakness. Whether the deal improves his political standing may depend on what emerges from those talks—and whether voters see strength or surrender in the final terms.
Key Points
- Trump’s 37% approval rating unchanged despite announcing Iran deal to reopen Strait of Hormuz
- 65% of Americans disapprove of his handling of Iran, closely tracking overall job performance
- Republican senator says “Reagan is rolling over in his grave” over 14-point preliminary agreement
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/white-house/4616272/trump-low-approval-unchange-iran-war/ – June 19, 2026
