Trump’s foreign policy approval tops 21st-century presidents

 November 20, 2025

President Donald Trump has just clinched the highest foreign policy approval rating of any 21st-century commander-in-chief at this stage of a second term.

At a solid 43 percent approval on foreign affairs, Trump outshines his predecessors and sets a new benchmark, though domestic economic woes could overshadow this win as the 2026 midterms loom.

Let’s break this down. Trump’s current 43 percent approval on foreign policy towers over George W. Bush’s 36 percent and Barack Obama’s 37 percent at similar points in their second terms.

Trump’s foreign policy numbers soar high

Even more striking, Trump has boosted his own record from a 35 percent approval in his first term to this impressive 43 percent now. That’s a leap worth noting, showing a growing confidence in his global strategy.

On specific issues like the Israel-Hamas War, Trump’s net approval stands at a respectable +3. Compare that to Joe Biden’s staggering net disapproval of -37 on the same conflict, and you’ve got a 40-point gap that’s hard to ignore.

“In other words, Trump’s net approval on the Israel-Hamas War is 40 points higher —40!— than Biden’s,” the data reveals. That’s not just a gap; it’s a canyon, highlighting a clear public preference for Trump’s approach on this volatile issue.

Legacy talks: Trump rivals historic giants

Some are even whispering that Trump’s foreign policy legacy could rival the likes of Franklin Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan. It’s a bold claim, but with numbers like these, the comparison isn’t entirely far-fetched.

“That is all great news for Trump’s legacy, which, I’m confident, will loom every bit as large as Franklin Roosevelt’s and Ronald Reagan’s,” the story suggests. While history will be the ultimate judge, these approval stats lay a strong foundation for such lofty predictions.

Yet, let’s not get too carried away with global triumphs. The upcoming 2026 midterm elections, which will shape the final two years of Trump’s presidency, are unlikely to be swayed by foreign policy wins.

Domestic economy overshadows global success

Instead, the electorate’s focus seems laser-locked on domestic struggles like soaring gas prices, pricey groceries, and the dream of homeownership slipping further out of reach. Foreign policy may earn applause, but pocketbook pain hits harder.

The stakes for 2026 couldn’t be higher. If Democrats seize control of the U.S. House, expect a storm of investigations and possibly even impeachment attempts aimed at Trump and the Republican Party.

Adding to the drama, congressional Democrats are rumored to have their sights set on Vice President JD Vance. Their apparent goal? Weaken his standing ahead of a potential 2028 presidential run.

Midterms hinge on economic frustrations

It’s a calculated move, turning the political arena into a battlefield where personal finances, not peace accords, dictate the outcome. Voters aren’t likely to care about Middle East stability when they’re wincing at the gas pump.

Foreign policy matters, no doubt, but it’s often drowned out by the everyday grind of economic reality. As the 2026 midterms approach, Trump’s impressive overseas record might just be a footnote if the economy doesn’t turn around.

So, while Trump’s foreign policy numbers are a feather in his cap, the road ahead looks bumpy. The real test will be whether his administration can tackle the domestic discontent that could define his final years in office.

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