As President Donald Trump nears the 100-day mark of his second term, he encounters a challenging landscape characterized by substantial disapproval levels, according to a survey conducted by NBC News Stay Tuned in collaboration with SurveyMonkey. This survey, which included 19,682 adults between April 11 and April 20 and has a margin of error of ±2.2 percentage points, indicates that just over 40% of Americans strongly disapprove of the president's performance, while only about a quarter express enthusiastic approval.
Polarized Public Sentiment
Negative emotions towards Trump, such as "angry" and "furious," significantly outweigh positive feelings like "happy" or "excited." The president struggles to secure majority support across all assessed political issues. On immigration—historically one of his stronger areas—the American public remains split with 49% approval versus 51% disapproval.
Economic Policies Under Scrutiny
Trump's economic management, particularly his approach to tariffs, has received harsh criticism. Only 39% approve of his handling of trade and tariffs, while 61% disapprove. Similarly, regarding inflation and living costs, a mere 40% of respondents approve of his performance.
Challenges in Diversity and Inclusion
In terms of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives—where the Trump administration has introduced restrictive changes—approval stands at 44%. Nonetheless, 65% of Americans believe that efforts to promote diversity are beneficial for schools and workplaces.
General Pessimism About National Direction
The survey also highlights a broadly pessimistic view of the nation's trajectory. Sixty percent of Americans feel the country is on the wrong track, compared to 40% who disagree. Optimism is most pronounced among Republicans (80%), especially those aligned with the MAGA movement (89%).
Partisan Divisions and the Road Ahead
Support for Trump remains deeply divided along party lines: 88% of Republicans approve of his leadership, contrasted with just 7% of Democrats. Among independents, a critical demographic for any leader, disapproval stands at 68%, with only 32% expressing approval.
Feelings towards Trump are a testament to the nation's polarization. While three-quarters of Republicans express enthusiasm or satisfaction with his administration, nine out of ten Democrats report dissatisfaction, anger, or fury, including 52% who describe themselves as outright "furious."
Despite widespread discontent, the survey underscores that neither Republicans nor Democrats have successfully convinced the electorate that they represent their interests, creating a space of uncertainty as the midterm elections approach.
Understanding Trump's Approval Ratings
What is the main reason for Trump's low approval ratings?
Trump's low approval ratings are mainly attributed to his handling of economic policies, particularly tariffs, and his divisive approach to immigration and diversity issues.
How do independent voters view Trump's performance?
Independent voters generally disapprove of Trump's performance, with 68% expressing disapproval and only 32% showing approval.
What are the implications of the survey for the upcoming midterm elections?
The survey suggests that neither major political party has fully captured the electorate's confidence, leading to an uncertain political landscape as the midterm elections approach.