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Nearly 70% of registered US voters are concerned about corruption, self-dealing and conflicts of interest in President Donald Trump’s administration, as rising prices and the unpopular war with Iran fuel public discontent, according to a Financial Times and Focaldata poll.
The survey found that 69% of respondents, including nearly half of those who voted for Trump in 2024, expressed concern about ethical issues in the White House. Almost half believe corruption has become a bigger problem than under previous presidents.
Economic pressures deepen discontent
The war with Iran has contributed to rising fuel prices, with diesel reaching $6.32 per gallon, up more than 70% from a year earlier. Meanwhile, 56% of respondents said their financial situation had worsened since the beginning of the year, and more than a quarter reported cutting spending on groceries or healthcare. <Cite refs={["turn905811news12"]}/>
Public scrutiny has also intensified over the Trump family’s cryptocurrency ventures, which have reportedly generated at least $1 billion, and government contracts awarded to donors connected to the family.
“When a family reads an article about presidential profits from cryptocurrencies while deciding whether to postpone an expensive doctor’s visit, they see that the system works for someone — just not for them,” said Jeremy Ney, a professor at Columbia Business School.
The White House rejects allegations of conflicts of interest and says Trump acts in the public’s best interests.
“There was no conflict of interest, and Trump acts only in the best interests of the American public — which is why he was re-elected by a large majority,” White House spokesperson Davis Ingle said.
He added that the administration had launched a major crackdown on fraud in federal agencies, while accusing congressional Democrats of refusing to curb wasteful spending.
Corruption and prices loom over midterms
Corruption and the cost of living are emerging as key issues ahead of the November midterm elections. More than 40% of respondents said rising prices made them more likely to vote for Democrats.
Republicans are concerned that Trump’s low approval ratings and the impact of high tariffs could undermine the party’s efforts to retain control of Congress.
The online poll was conducted by Focaldata from October 16 to 18 among 1,648 registered voters. The margin of error was 2.8 percentage points.
Ahead of the congressional elections, Trump has also increased pressure on Ukraine, including through threats and restrictions on intelligence sharing and access to Starlink. Polling suggests the approach has not delivered the expected boost to Republican support. A loss of control of Congress could expose the administration to major investigations and potential impeachment proceedings.
