Public confidence in Congress has plunged to near historic lows, with a new poll showing overwhelming dissatisfaction with the institution’s performance.
Gallup’s latest survey found just 10% of Americans approve of Congress, while 86% disapprove—tying the highest disapproval rating ever recorded.
The findings come amid ongoing political turmoil in Washington, including a prolonged Department of Homeland Security funding impasse that has stretched into its 10th week. Historically, spikes in congressional disapproval have often coincided with government shutdowns or threats of one.
Approval ratings for the current Congress have fallen sharply since early 2025. After reaching a high of 31% in March of last year, approval dropped significantly following the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history, which began in October. Since then, ratings have remained in the low-to-mid teens.
Much of the recent decline has been driven by Republicans, whose approval of Congress has fallen after peaking in early 2025. Democrats and independents have consistently rated Congress poorly, with current approval among Democrats at just 3% and independents at 11%.
Gallup researchers noted that broader political tensions—including stalled legislation, foreign policy concerns, economic pressures, and ethics scandals—may be contributing to the souring public opinion.
While Congress has experienced periods of deep public disapproval before, the latest numbers underscore a level of frustration that remains entrenched across party lines.
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