A Growing Rift: Why Even Many Republicans Are Withdrawing Support from Donald Trump’s Management of Government

A new national survey found that Republicans, not just independents or Democrats, are losing support for Trump’s federal government management. The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll conducted November 6–10, 2025, found that 33% of U.S. adults approve of Trump’s government operations, down from 43% in March.

This survey highlights Republican support decline. Republicans now approve of Trump’s government management at 68%, down from 81% months earlier. Independent approval fell further, from 38% to 25%. These numbers highlight a less obvious but crucial issue for the president: his party base’s decline.

Federal government shutdown is a major factor, say experts. Air travel, food aid, and federal employee pay have been disrupted by the longest US shutdown. The public seems to hold Trump accountable despite his attempts to blame Congress and the opposition.

Beyond the shutdown, other administration actions may contribute. The survey shows growing dissatisfaction with agency closures, staff cuts, and federal restructuring. Republican voters who trusted the president are alarmed by these changes.

Trump’s job approval among U.S. adults remains in the mid-30s despite government management approval falling. His stability masks his support coalition’s instability, raising questions about his political sustainability if key constituencies soften.

Though many Republicans still support Trump, political strategists say his support is eroding. Internal party disapproval indicates leadership style dissatisfaction, not policy disagreement. Republican respondents cited erratic decision-making and a lack of domestic economic focus.

Trump’s timing matters. This resolution’s reception will greatly impact public opinion as Congress works to end the shutdown and resume normal government operations. A quick, clear resolution may prevent further losses, but a messy one may worsen damage. The poll predicts rebound or further decline depending on events.

In conclusion, partisan divisions and more party and independent voters questioning his government management are causing political problems for the president. His biggest political risk may be losing core support.

Sources
Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll data
Related media coverage of the survey