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Biden Approval Hits Record Low of 38%

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 12th 2026 at 10:56 GMT by CNN
      Locales: N/A, Arizona, UNITED STATES

WASHINGTON (CNN) - President Joe Biden's approval rating has reached a concerning new low of 38%, according to the latest Gallup poll released today, February 12th, 2026. This represents the nadir of his presidency thus far and casts a long shadow over the Democratic Party's prospects as the 2028 election cycle rapidly approaches. While midterm corrections and fluctuations in public opinion are common, the sustained decline, particularly among independent voters, signals a more fundamental shift in the political landscape.

The recent poll, conducted between February 8th and 12th, paints a stark picture of eroding support. The 38% approval is a significant drop from previous highs and indicates a widening gap between the administration and the electorate. While Biden maintains a strong base of support within the Democratic Party (78%), this is insufficient to offset the dwindling enthusiasm from crucial swing voters. The most alarming statistic is the drop in independent approval, now at just 32%, down from 45% in January 2026. This group, historically decisive in national elections, is increasingly expressing dissatisfaction, potentially reshaping the electoral map for 2028.

"The consistent erosion of support among independents is a worrying trend for the President," explains Frank Newport, Managing Director of the Gallup Center for Public Opinion. "It suggests a growing disconnect between the administration's policies and the concerns of everyday Americans. It's no longer simply about policy disagreements; it's a perceived lack of understanding of the pressures facing middle-class families."

The Economic Weight:

Economic anxiety continues to be the primary driver of voter discontent. While inflation has retreated from its 2024 peak, it remains stubbornly elevated, impacting household budgets and eroding consumer confidence. The Gallup poll reveals that 62% of Americans currently rate economic conditions as 'fair' or 'poor' - a figure that suggests widespread financial strain. This isn't merely about the headline inflation rate; it's about felt economic hardship. Rising housing costs, healthcare expenses, and the lingering effects of supply chain disruptions are all contributing to this pervasive sense of insecurity.

Furthermore, economists are increasingly concerned about the potential for stagflation - a combination of slow economic growth and persistent inflation - which could further exacerbate the situation. While the administration has touted its investments in infrastructure and green energy as long-term solutions, these initiatives have yet to translate into tangible improvements in the lives of most Americans, leaving a void that opposing parties are eager to fill.

Foreign Policy Concerns and Global Instability:

Beyond domestic economics, the poll highlights growing dissatisfaction with President Biden's handling of foreign policy. The ongoing tensions in the South China Sea are a particular area of concern, with voters questioning the effectiveness of the administration's diplomatic approach. Critics argue that the response has been too cautious, allowing China to expand its influence and challenge the existing international order. The administration maintains its stance is one of calculated deterrence, avoiding escalation while safeguarding US interests. However, a growing segment of the population perceives this as weakness, particularly in light of increasingly assertive actions by China and its allies.

Recent incidents involving near-collisions between US and Chinese vessels in the South China Sea have amplified these anxieties. Public demands for a stronger, more decisive response are growing, and the administration faces a difficult balancing act between protecting US interests and avoiding a potentially catastrophic conflict.

Looking Ahead: The National Address and the 2028 Landscape:

President Biden is scheduled to deliver a major address to the nation next week, an opportunity to reset the narrative and outline his plans for tackling both economic and geopolitical challenges. The poll results will undoubtedly intensify scrutiny of this speech, placing immense pressure on the President to articulate a clear and compelling vision for the future. Analysts expect Biden to focus on themes of economic opportunity, national security, and restoring American leadership on the world stage.

The 2028 election is already beginning to take shape, with several potential candidates emerging from both parties. The low approval ratings will make it significantly more challenging for Biden to secure re-election, opening the door for a competitive and potentially transformative election cycle. The Democratic party will likely be forced to confront some serious questions about its direction and appeal to a broad range of voters. This poll serves as a stark warning - a wake-up call that necessitates a significant course correction if the administration hopes to regain lost ground and secure a path to victory in 2028.