Trump Faces Historic Economic Approval Slump as Voters Signal Growing Discontent
In the first year of his second term, public trust in President Donald Trump’s economy management dips to record lows. New polling and expert analysis reveal that people are growing dissatisfied with the economy, worrying the government and Republicans ahead of future elections.
Trump’s economic popularity rating is negative 19 points, according to CNN statistics expert Harry Enten. This is the lowest economic approval rating for a president in his second term. Enten called the scenario “history made in the wrong direction,” noting that economic performance was a major reason people re-elected Trump.
Compared to other modern presidents in their second terms, the disparity is significant. Former President George W. Bush had a net economic approval of minus 15, Barack Obama minus 14, Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton plus 17 and 35 points, respectively. Trump’s scores are below all of them, demonstrating voter displeasure.
Beyond universal approval, economic concerns persist. The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that many Americans think Trump’s initiatives have hurt their finances. Trump has hampered job creation, according to 43% of respondents, while 26% say he has benefited. Analysts say this reputation is worse than President Joe Biden’s job performance at the end of his term, making the contrast particularly devastating for Trump.
Cost of living has become a bigger issue. Trump increased living costs for 57% of respondents, while 19% claimed he eased financial burden. A stark contrast from Trump’s first term, when public opinion was evenly split on whether his policies helped or hindered household expenses. This extraordinary reversal indicates voter discontent with rising costs and economic uncertainty, analysts say.
Many Americans consider affordability issues when assessing economic leadership, including health care expenses. These perceptions matter because cost-of-living constraints and job security often determine voters’ evaluations of an administration.
Political experts warn that if these figures don’t improve, the ramifications could go beyond approval ratings. Economic leadership insecurity has typically cost the president’s party midterm elections. Analysts say Republicans could struggle in the 2026 elections if voters believe the economy is worsening.
For present, the evidence shows that many Americans are unhappy with the economy and blame the president. Voters are worried about inflation, jobs, and household costs, therefore the government must offer outcomes that appeal to ordinary Americans.
Sources
CNN (Data analysis commentary by Harry Enten)
The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research
