Amid rising diesel prices, Republicans turn against Trump for first time on handling inflation

Key Points:

• Recent polling by Strength In Numbers reveals a historic drop in Donald Trump’s approval among Republicans regarding his handling of prices, with net approval falling from +54 in August 2026 to +43 in September 2026, hitting a new low of −8 on price issues.
• Diesel fuel prices have surged dramatically since May 2025, reaching an all-time high of $6.29 per gallon in September 2026, disproportionately impacting Republican-leaning voters in key states like Ohio, Iowa, and Michigan where farmers and truckers are significant constituencies.
• Trump’s approval ratings have declined sharply in traditionally deep-red states, including Wyoming, Utah, Kentucky, and Mississippi, with several states holding competitive Senate races where Republican candidates are now tied or trailing despite Trump’s previous double-digit wins.
• The rising cost of living, especially fuel prices, poses a unique vulnerability for Trump and the Republican Party, potentially driving some Republican voters toward Democrats or reducing voter turnout among strong partisans as the election approaches in 32 days.
• Strength In Numbers encourages readers to support their independent, data-driven election analysis through paid subscriptions, which fund surveys, data collection, and in-depth political insights during this critical election season.