Trump Faces Record Low Approval Ratings Six Months into Term

As of now, President Donald Trump is grappling with an alarming decline in public support, with his approval rating plummeting to 37 percent—the lowest point of his current term. According to a recent Gallup survey published on Thursday, this figure is only slightly above his previous term’s nadir of 34 percent, which he reached towards the end of his first presidency.

Trump’s declining popularity comes in the wake of significant political controversies. Notably, his actions during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, where he incited his supporters to disrupt the certification of the 2020 election, have played a substantial role in shaping public perception. This incident not only damaged his reputation but also alienated several former allies.

Recent surveys indicate that Trump’s approval ratings are struggling across various issues. A Yahoo News/YouGov poll from late last month revealed that his disapproval rating on immigration—a topic he previously championed—has risen to 52 percent, with only 44 percent of Americans expressing approval. This significant backlash suggests that his administration’s focus on an aggressive immigration agenda has not resonated well with the electorate.

Furthermore, the Gallup survey highlights a notable decline in support among Independent voters, where Trump has lost 17 percentage points since taking office. This drop is critical, as Independents often play a pivotal role in elections. In comparison to previous surveys, there has been a 14 percentage-point decrease in approval regarding the federal budget and an 8 percentage-point decline related to immigration.

Despite these challenges, Trump has managed to secure higher ratings for his handling of foreign affairs, garnering a 42 percent approval rating on his approach to Iran and 41 percent for other international matters. These numbers reflect a segment of the population that still views his foreign policy initiatives favorably.

As Trump continues his presidency, the implications of these approval ratings may affect his ability to push through his agenda. The ongoing dissatisfaction among voters, particularly among Independents, could impact his party’s performance in upcoming elections, making it crucial for the administration to recalibrate its strategies.