An NHK monthly opinion poll shows the approval rate for Prime Minister Kishida Fumio's Cabinet dropped by 2 points to 23 percent. The disapproval rate rose by 1 point to 58 percent.

NHK conducted the phone survey over three days from Friday. More than 1,200 people responded.

Among those who support the Cabinet, 46 percent said it seems better than possible alternatives, 28 percent said it is made up of political parties they support, and 13 percent expressed trust in Kishida.

Of those who disapprove, 43 percent said they have low expectations for the Cabinet's policies, 27 percent said the Cabinet lacks the ability to implement policies, and 11 percent said they do not trust the prime minister.

Last week, the main ruling Liberal Democratic Party handed down punishments for 39 party members involved in a fundraising scandal.

Asked about the outcome, 9 percent said they are satisfied and 20 percent are somewhat satisfied, while 22 percent are somewhat unsatisfied and 41 percent are unsatisfied.

Two senior lawmakers, who belonged to the LDP's largest faction once led by the late Prime Minister Abe Shinzo, received the second heaviest punishment under party rules. They were urged to leave the party. They were among four Abe faction members accused of holding discussions about the handling of the off-the-books refunds or kickbacks.

Asked about the punishment, 34 percent of respondents found the penalty too light, 49 percent called it appropriate, and 6 percent said it was too harsh.

The LDP did not punish former party Secretary-General Nikai Toshihiro as he announced he will not run in the next Lower House election.

Asked about this decision, 21 percent said it was appropriate, while 68 percent said it was not.

On the party's decision that Prime Minister Kishida was not subject to any penalty, 25 percent said it was appropriate, and 61 percent called it inappropriate.

Kishida left for the United States on Monday to hold talks with President Joe Biden this week.

Asked if the summit will strengthen bilateral ties, 45 percent said it will, while 40 percent said it will not.