Heading into Trump’s second term, Americans are deeply divided.
President Donald Trump’s second term has marked a unique period in American politics, with his approval ratings offering a fascinating comparison to his first presidency. As one of only two presidents to serve non-consecutive terms, Trump’s early weeks have provided valuable insights into his performance.
Initially, Trump’s net approval ratings were higher than his own rates in 2017, but still lower than any other president in history. However, by the end of February, his net approval rating had shrunk to just above even. This shift can be attributed to several factors, including his federal agency cuts and the prominent role of Elon Musk in his administration, both of which have been met with controversy from voters.
According to Costas Panagopoulos, head of political science at Northeastern University, Trump’s approval ratings have not shown a significant change from the beginning of his term or compared to his first term. However, Panagopoulos notes that voters may continue to have reservations about the administration’s priorities, particularly with regards to the economy and inflation.
The polarization of the electorate plays a crucial role in understanding Trump’s approval ratings. While Democrats are fragmented, Republicans have presented a “united front” in supporting Trump. This unity may be artificially inflating Trump’s approval numbers, particularly among Republicans. As Panagopoulos points out, people are unlikely to move away from Trump until they have an alternative to support.
The polls also reveal interesting insights into how Americans approve of Trump’s second presidency. For instance, a survey by Pew Research Center found that 47% of U.S. adults approve of how Trump is handling his job as president, while 51% disapprove. The same survey also showed that 73% of Americans believe Trump has clear goals for where he wants to lead the country, but there is more disagreement over how much of his agenda he will be able to accomplish.
Overall, Trump’s approval ratings offer a complex and multifaceted picture of his second presidency. As the administration continues to unfold, it will be interesting to see how these ratings evolve and how they are impacted by various factors, including the economy, inflation, and the ongoing polarization of the electorate.
