Congressional Approval at Historic Low: Fewer Americans Support Congress Than Believe Moon Landing Was Faked

A stark disparity in American public opinion has emerged, with congressional approval ratings hitting record lows while an unusual comparison highlights the depth of lawmakers' unpopularity.

According to the latest Gallup survey, just 10 percent of Americans approve of Congress's performance, while 86 percent disapprove—matching the record high for disapproval set in 2013. The numbers represent a four-point decline since March, as detailed by CNN data analyst Harry Enten on Wednesday.

A Humbling Comparison

In a striking illustration of congressional unpopularity, Enten pointed out that more Americans question the authenticity of the Apollo 11 moon landing than approve of Congress. Gallup data indicates that 12 percent of Americans believe the moon landing was fabricated, compared to the 10 percent congressional approval rating.

The analyst further contextualized the figures by noting that the same 10 percent share represents those who believe the Earth is flat—placing congressional approval on par with belief in scientifically debunked theories.

"More Americans say that the moon landing was fake back in 1969 than actually approve of the job that Congress is doing right now," Enten stated during the segment with anchor Sara Sidner.

Root Causes of Disapproval

The historically low approval ratings coincide with several contributing factors affecting public confidence in lawmakers:

• Government shutdown: The Department of Homeland Security shutdown has extended for 10 weeks, with Gallup data showing that major spikes in congressional disapproval have historically occurred during shutdowns or shutdown threats
• Sexual misconduct allegations: Rep. Eric Swalwell (California Democrat) and Rep. Tony Gonzales (Texas Republican) have recently departed Congress following misconduct allegations, while Rep. Cory Mills (Florida Republican) faces an active House Ethics investigation for similar allegations
• Legislative stall: Congressional output has significantly diminished, with fewer than 40 bills signed into law last year—the lowest level during the first year of a modern presidency

When asked what Congress could do to improve its standing, Enten offered a simple prescription: "They can actually do something, do something, do something. Then maybe people might actually like it."