President Donald Trump’s approval rating reached 40% in January, up from 36% in December, according to an AP/NORC poll. His disapproval rating fell slightly to 59%.
The increase comes even as many Americans oppose U.S. involvement in international conflicts. The AP/NORC poll found 45% of respondents want the U.S. to take a less active role globally, up from 33% in December.
Other recent polls show similar trends. The Economist/YouGov poll also put Trump’s approval at 40% and his disapproval at 56%. Despite the rise, his net approval rating remains negative, at -17%.
Trump’s approval has fluctuated during his second term. Economic concerns have weighed on his numbers, with fewer Americans approving of his handling of the economy. Just 26% said he is managing the cost of living well, according to Reuters/Ipsos.
Recent foreign policy actions have drawn attention. The U.S. captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife in early January. Trump is also threatening military action in Iran following protests that killed thousands. Polls show limited support for these operations.
Trump has launched an “affordability tour” to improve voters’ perceptions of his handling of economic issues. He has also faced criticism from within his own party and from past supporters. Approval among Republicans for his economic management has dropped from 82% in July to 75% in November.
Despite challenges, Trump’s average approval rating this term matches his first term, at 41%. This is lower than most U.S. presidents, with only Joe Biden and a few historical leaders posting similar averages.