Trump’s Approval Rating Crashes Among Black Voters

President Donald Trump’s support among Black voters is collapsing—and fast. According to new data from The Economist/YouGov, Black Americans are souring on the president’s second term, especially when it comes to the economy, inflation, and civil rights.

In what appears to be a stunning reversal from 2024—when Trump made historic inroads with Black voters—his approval rating has now plunged to crisis levels.

Approval Freefall

In May 2025, Trump held a net approval rating of -47 with Black voters. Not great—but survivable. Fast forward to August, and the numbers are downright brutal: a net approval rating of -73.

That means just 11% of Black voters now say they approve of Trump’s job performance, while a staggering 84% disapprove. His favorability has dropped by 25 points in only three months.

“Trump’s relationship with Black voters is unraveling in real time,” said Costas Panagopoulos, a political science professor at Northeastern University. “This isn’t just a slump—it’s a collapse.”

The Economy Isn’t Helping

A major source of frustration? The economy.

Only 9% of Black voters now approve of how Trump is handling jobs and the economy. That’s down from 24% in May—a 15-point drop in less than 90 days.

When it comes to inflation, things are even worse: just 8% approve of Trump’s performance, down from 19% in May. In contrast, 41% of white voters and 34% of Hispanic voters give Trump positive marks on inflation.

“The numbers suggest Black Americans are feeling the economic pain more than most,” said Craig Agranoff, a political analyst at Florida Atlantic University. “And they don’t see Trump doing anything meaningful to change that.”

Broken Promises and Rhetoric Backlash

The backlash goes beyond bread-and-butter issues. Critics point to Trump’s rollback of affirmative action policies, aggressive immigration rhetoric, and increased law enforcement funding as moves that have alienated Black voters.

And while Trump hoped symbolic gestures—like promoting school choice or funding “patriotic education”—would maintain support, many see them as hollow.

“Erasing Black Lives Matter Plaza in D.C. wasn’t just a cosmetic decision. It sent a message,” said Panagopoulos. “Black voters are listening.”

From 2024 Gains to 2025 Reality Check

Trump’s 2024 campaign shocked pundits when he captured 16% of the Black vote—a record for a Republican presidential candidate in the 21st century. But that post-election goodwill is evaporating.

“We were told the economy would roar back. Instead, prices keep climbing, wages are stuck, and opportunities are drying up,” said Kendra Owens, a 32-year-old teacher in Atlanta. “He promised prosperity. We got pain.”

The Road to 2026

As Trump presses forward with his second-term agenda, Republicans are hoping to retain momentum heading into the 2026 midterms. But with Black support deteriorating, the road ahead looks uncertain.

“If this trend holds,” said Agranoff, “Republicans could be in serious trouble in swing districts with high Black voter turnout.”

Whether Trump’s approval rebounds—or continues to crater—may shape the political landscape heading into what could be one of the most pivotal midterms in decades. One thing is clear: Black voters are paying attention, and they’re not impressed.