A new national poll has offered surprising insights into the political landscape ahead of the 2028 U.S. presidential election. The Emerson College Poll not only highlights a noticeable drop in President Donald Trump’s approval ratings, but also reveals which potential candidates voters are beginning to support for the next election cycle.

Since returning to the White House in 2025, Donald Trump has implemented a series of bold and often controversial decisions. These include signing multiple executive orders, enacting new tariffs on imported goods, and engaging in a highly publicized feud with tech billionaire Elon Musk. These actions have divided public opinion and contributed to growing political tensions both at home and abroad.

One of the most dramatic recent developments occurred last weekend, when President Trump ordered airstrikes on three suspected nuclear facilities in Iran. The U.S. military carried out precision missile attacks on locations in Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan—key sites in Iran’s nuclear program. In response, Iran launched retaliatory rocket attacks targeting a U.S. military base in Qatar, further escalating tensions in the Middle East.

According to the Emerson College Poll, conducted shortly after these events, Trump’s approval rating has dropped to 45%, with 46% of respondents disapproving of his performance. An additional 9% remain undecided, indicating a slight decline in public support compared to earlier in the year.

Meanwhile, the poll also included questions about potential candidates for the 2028 presidential election. Although no official campaigns have been launched yet, voters expressed early preferences for a range of figures from both major parties, suggesting that the race to succeed Trump may already be taking shape behind the scenes.

This data provides fresh insight into how American voters are reacting to the current administration and what they might be looking for in the country’s next leader.