A new Gallup poll released in April 2026 shows public disapproval of the U.S. Congress has reached 83%, matching the historic high recorded in October 2023. The current approval rating stands at just 16%.
The survey, conducted from April 1-15, 2026, indicates that negative sentiment toward the legislative branch remains entrenched. This level of disapproval has only been recorded once before, during a period of intense partisan gridlock and a near government shutdown in late 2023.
Gallup's historical data shows that congressional approval has rarely exceeded 30% over the past two decades. The current figures reflect ongoing public frustration with legislative productivity and partisan conflict in Washington, D.C.
Analysts note that such persistently high disapproval ratings often correlate with election years where voters express dissatisfaction with the status quo. The 2026 midterm elections are seen as a potential outlet for this sentiment.
