President Donald Trump’s approval rating among women appears to be rebounding slightly after hitting a recent low, according to new polling data.
In July, women gave Trump a 31 percent approval rating and 65 percent disapproval (-34 net) according to Quinnipiac University polling. By August, his approval fell to 29 percent while disapproval remained at 65 percent (-36 net), marking the lowest point in months. September data shows a modest recovery, with 32 percent approval and 61 percent disapproval (-29 net).
These numbers, however, predate Trump’s recent comments about Tylenol use during pregnancy—remarks that drew criticism from medical experts and could influence support among women moving forward.
Women’s Issues at the Forefront
Since returning to the White House in January 2025, Trump has made women’s issues a prominent focus of his administration, often sparking controversy.
On his first day, he signed an executive order requiring federal agencies to define sex strictly as male or female, rolling back protections for transgender individuals. Shortly after, he banned transgender people from military service—a policy currently tied up in court. By February, the administration introduced measures aimed at “keeping men out of women’s sports,” and mid-summer guidance directed agencies to enforce sex-based distinctions in workplace policies.
Polling indicates these moves were met with disapproval from women voters. In YouGov/Economist surveys, Trump’s approval among women dropped from 43 percent approve/47 percent disapprove (-4 net) in January to 43 percent approve/50 percent disapprove (-7 net) in March. Quinnipiac polling reflected a sharper decline, from 36 percent approve/53 percent disapprove (-17 net) in January to 32 percent approve/63 percent disapprove (-31 net) by March.
In September, Trump shifted focus to maternal health, warning pregnant women against taking Tylenol and suggesting links to autism. His administration announced new research initiatives and directed the FDA to review labeling, even as medical experts questioned the claims. The impact on women’s support remains uncertain.
A History of Controversial Remarks
Trump’s history of controversial comments about women spans political rivals, public figures, and allies’ spouses. On the campaign trail, he repeatedly targeted then-Vice President Kamala Harris, questioning her intelligence and labeling her “Lyin’ Kamala Harris.”
Beyond politics, Trump has faced backlash for remarks about women’s appearance, including a 2017 greeting to French First Lady Brigitte Macron that was widely reported internationally. Reports also suggest he advised men facing misconduct allegations to “deny, deny, deny” and resist admitting culpability.
These patterns, coupled with longstanding sexual misconduct allegations he denies, help explain why women historically have been less supportive. Mike Tappin, honorary fellow at Keele University, noted, “Hardly presidential, or even respectful. You can understand the gender gap.”
Gains on the Economy and Trade
Trump has made some gains with women on economic issues. His net approval on the economy rose from -37 in August to -27 in September, while trade approval improved from -36 to -28.
Despite these gains, broader polling shows lingering skepticism. YouGov/Economist surveys indicate his approval on jobs and the economy fell from 34 percent in mid-August to 29 percent in September, with disapproval climbing from 56 percent to 60 percent. Inflation remains a concern, with prices rising at the fastest pace since January.
Recent government data shows stronger-than-expected economic growth: GDP grew at an annual rate of 3.8 percent from April through June, up from previous estimates of 3.3 percent and 3 percent, driven by higher consumer spending.
Ongoing Struggles in Foreign Policy
Trump’s support among women remains weak on foreign policy, particularly regarding Ukraine and Gaza. His overall foreign policy rating improved from -33 in August to -26 in September, but net approval on the Russia-Ukraine conflict fell to -33, and his handling of the Israel-Hamas war remains low at -33.
Polling indicates 67 percent of women view supporting Ukraine as in the national interest, 46 percent feel similarly about Israel, and 40 percent oppose it.
Trump’s positions on these conflicts have shifted in 2025. On Ukraine, he now supports NATO and EU-backed efforts for full territorial recovery, contrasting with earlier mediation efforts with Russia. On Gaza and Israel, he has emphasized a 60-day ceasefire and a 21-point peace plan, while maintaining strong support for Israel and rejecting moves to recognize Palestinian statehood.
Volatility in Approval Ratings
Experts caution that month-to-month swings in Trump’s approval among women may not indicate a lasting trend. Carrie Baker, professor of women, gender, and sexuality at Smith College, explained, “There is no real difference between 29 and 32 because of the margin of polling error…extreme rhetoric and policy cuts all contribute to very low ratings with women.”
Recent polls reflect ongoing volatility. YouGov/Economist data showed Trump’s overall approval at -18 points before creeping up to -17, while Quinnipiac polling shows net approval at -16, with 38 percent approving and 54 percent disapproving.
David Montgomery, YouGov data journalist, noted the fluctuations could result from rapidly changing news cycles or regression to the mean, cautioning that only sustained trends will reveal whether shifts in Trump’s approval are genuine.
