After 100 days into President Trump’s second term, there’s growing concern among Americans regarding his constitutional actions, particularly as economic challenges escalate.
His overall approval rating has plummeted by 14 points since he took office, now sitting at a disapproval rate of 45%, a stark shift from the initial plus 7 points according to RealClearpolitics Polling.
Interestingly, it appears that his actual approval figures might be even more concerning than many polls suggest.
In the most recent five polls covered by RealClearPolitics, Trump’s average approval sits at a minus 12 points, with notable declines from NPR (-10), ABC News (-13), CNN (-14), NY Times/Siena (-12), and CBS (-10).
To rephrase it, he’s squandered much of the goodwill accrued during his initial phase, as his emotions seem increasingly volatile.
While his average approval of 45% is slightly higher compared to his first term’s 100-day mark, it’s still 11 points lower than President Biden’s at the same stage.
As noted recently, part of the problem lies in Trump’s tendency to exaggerate constitutional limitations, often reacting impulsively rather than through a structured approach.
From suspending tariffs to removing federal employees without due process, his administration’s hastiness has understandably alarmed the public.
Since last December, the percentage of Americans feeling “fearful” or “pessimistic” about his presidency has increased by 16 points, soaring from 41% to 57%.
Conversely, just 43% express feelings of “optimism” or “enthusiasm,” which is down by 8 points.
Compounding concerns, there’s growing frustration regarding how Trump manages the economy, a critical issue for his 2024 campaign.
A survey from CNBC suggests that only about 43% approve of his economic management, reflecting a majority disapproval rate of 55%. This marks the first time he’s recorded a net negative rating in either of his terms.
Furthermore, half of voters believe he worsened economic conditions, as per a New York Times/Siena poll, with merely 21% thinking he has improved it.
His handling of inflation, a significant factor during his previous campaign, now garners the lowest approval among issues tested—only 37% of Americans endorsing his strategy.
Additionally, 61% of people disapprove of his trade and tariff policies while 39% approve, according to NBC News polling.
With the Commerce Department reporting the first economic contraction since 2022, it seems challenging for Trump to sway public opinion positively on this urgent matter.
The chaos from how he’s implemented tariffs has intensified public dissatisfaction, affecting perceptions of his broader presidency.
A majority of Americans (54%) doubt Trump’s negotiation skills in securing trade deals touted by the White House.
Moreover, they lack confidence in his ability to handle pressing issues, including foreign policy (56% doubtful), economic strategies (55% doubtful), and effective governance (55% doubtful).
Pew Research indicates that 59% believe Trump’s efforts to cut federal spending have been reckless, despite widespread acknowledgment of government inefficiencies.
Beyond the economy, immigration was crucial to Trump’s previous electoral success. According to Fox News polling, a majority (55%) approved his approach to border security, closely mirroring the 53% approval noted by CNBC.
Nevertheless, even among immigrants, his aggressive tactics have drawn criticism. He holds a net positive approval for border security (15 points), but faces a net negative regarding deportations (45% disapproval).
This discontent is encapsulated in recent events involving a controversial deportation case, which raised legal and ethical concerns.
When it comes to foreign policy, a significant majority (56%) disapprove of his handling of the Russian-Ukraine conflict, as noted in the New York Times/Siena poll. His assurances to resolve the war have clashed with the ongoing realities faced by American hostages.
Amidst these challenges, Americans appear more sympathetic to Ukraine, with a record high (46%) believing the U.S. isn’t doing enough to assist in the war effort.
All these polling trends suggest a clear picture not just of dissatisfaction, but also of Trump’s apparent self-sabotage through his excesses.
Instead of streamlining inflation and boosting the economy, his administration seems to be going against these very goals, potentially pushing the country toward a recession and aggravating public sentiment.
While 100 days might not be enough to make definitive predictions about the remainder of his term, it certainly allows Americans to articulate their thoughts about the new administration.
The data suggests that Trump’s second administration is facing significant challenges, as underscored by a recent editorial from the Wall Street Journal: “Trump 2.0 is in trouble.”
