Former President Donald Trump’s approval rating in Arkansas has dropped to its lowest point of his second term, according to a recent poll that also shows potential challenges for Republican candidates in the state, including Gov. Sarah Sanders.
The survey, conducted on August 11 and 12 by Talk Business & Politics and Hendrix College, polled 1,217 likely voters in Arkansas. The results indicate that 53% of respondents disapprove of Trump’s job performance, while 46% approve. On specific issues, his disapproval ratings climbed higher, with 55% unhappy with his handling of the economy and 56.5% disapproving of his approach to the conflict with Iran.
Roby Brock, Editor-in-Chief of Talk Business & Politics, stated that the president’s declining popularity appears to influence several races across the state. The survey’s analysis suggested that the disapproval is heavily concentrated among independent voters, with more than 70% expressing negative sentiments and many describing their disapproval as particularly strong. Trump remains popular, however, among voters aged 65 and older and those without college degrees. Younger voters and women, by contrast, voiced more critical opinions.
The ripple effects of Trump’s declining support are apparent in Arkansas's gubernatorial race. According to the poll, Gov. Sarah Sanders holds a narrow lead over Democratic challenger State Sen. Fred Love, with 45% of respondents backing her candidacy compared to 40% for Love. Libertarian candidate Colt Shelby garnered 7% support, while 8% of voters remain undecided.
Poll analysts noted that despite Sanders’ structural advantages—such as her significant fundraising lead and strong backing from voters aged 45 and older—the contest is tighter than anticipated for an incumbent governor in a predominantly Republican state. Independents, in particular, expressed a preference for Love over the GOP, a shift that could reshape the dynamics of the race.
While Libertarian Colt Shelby’s support is higher than the rate typically seen for third-party contenders in Arkansas, analysts believe it is unlikely to alter the final outcome of the race significantly.
The poll carries a margin of error of plus or minus 4.7 percentage points. Responses were collected through SMS and adjusted to account for variations in ethnicity, education, gender, and region within Arkansas.