‘Just Atrocious’: Trump Faces the Toughest Polling Stretch of His Second Term
National surveys show President Donald Trump’s approval levels dropping, his worst second-term polling. CNN statistics analyst Harry Enten says this 10-day stretch is Trump’s lowest polling window since retaking the White House.
In recent weeks, the government shutdown and Jeffrey Epstein document dispute have infuriated Americans. Trump’s numbers fell across credible polling institutes as these stories intensified.
Even Trump’s best poll was negative, Enten said. The president tied his worst net approval rating in that poll’s history at -14 points. Some estimated him at minus 17, 22, and 26. Enten concluded the trend shows the president is “well underwater,” with no quick recovery.
This dramatic reduction appears to be related to Trump’s declining support among independent voters, an important demographic in national elections. Enten highlighted that the president is 43 points behind independents in the latest polling average, a huge gap that political strategists worry will damage next year’s midterms. This trend might imperil the Republican House and Senate majorities, say experts.
This reduction is notable after Democrats won close races in New Jersey, Virginia, and New York City. Many election observers noted that Democratic candidates emphasized on affordability and everyday economic issues that beset American households.
Enten suggested Trump’s handling of rising costs may be a big cause in his declining popularity. He said in January people saw Trump as slightly above water economically. That figure has dropped 34 points as inflation and cost-of-living concerns have worsened, leaving the president 34 points behind on the subject that helped him return to office.
Economic unhappiness and declining independent voter support make the coming months crucial for the White House, analysts say. As the elections approach, it’s uncertain if Trump can reverse this trend or if these “atrocious” numbers foreshadow long-term political trouble.
Sources:
CNN, Marquette University Law School Poll, Fox News Poll, Marist Poll, Reuters/Ipsos, AP-NORC Poll
