A new poll released Tuesday, October 13, 2026, by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research indicates that approximately 6 in 10 U.S. adults believe President Donald Trump is profiting from the presidency in ways they characterize as either illegal or unethical. According to the survey, 41% of respondents believe the president is profiting illegally, while 18% describe his actions as unethical but not illegal.
The survey follows the expansion of Trump’s business activities during his second term, including the removal of a self-imposed ban on his family seeking private-sector deals abroad and the launch of new cryptocurrency ventures. In a June financial disclosure, the president reported more than $1 billion in income from crypto businesses following his administration's decision to loosen industry regulations. The White House has denied allegations of conflicts, stating the president acts solely in the interest of the country.
Detailing the business ventures, the poll report notes that the Trump Organization reached eight foreign deals during the first year of his second term. One cryptocurrency project received a $500 million investment from a United Arab Emirates business connected to the royal family. Additionally, Trump reported earning approximately $600 million from World Liberty Financial and $635 million from CIC Digital LLC. Financial analysts and Forbes reported that Trump’s net worth has grown from $2.3 billion to approximately $7 billion since his reelection.
The day-to-day impact involves how federal policy may intersect with private gain. For example, the president’s move to deregulate the cryptocurrency market coincided with his reporting of more than $1 billion in income from his own crypto businesses over the last year. Critics and supporters alike are watching these developments ahead of the upcoming midterm elections, as the poll shows only 23% of Americans believe the president has prioritized the country as a whole "a lot."
The findings regarding the transparency of executive branch financial interests and the enforcement of conflict-of-interest standards come as Republicans are more likely to support the president—with about half saying he prioritizes the country. However, only one-quarter of Republicans believe he has focused significantly on people like them. These perceptions of presidential focus and ethics may influence voter behavior in the 2026 midterm elections. No specific court dates or legislative deadlines regarding these business ventures were reported.