Donald Trump’s second term began with chaos — mass government layoffs, rising egg prices, a shaky stock market, and escalating tariff wars. Yet despite the turbulence, his approval ratings held steady. Trump defended his aggressive policies in a speech to Congress, highlighting immigration crackdowns, deep budget cuts, and a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum that provoked retaliation from Canada and Europe.
Polls show his approval averaging around 46%, slightly higher than his first-term average of 41%. A Reuters/Ipsos survey gave him 44% approval in his first month, with immigration policies viewed favorably by 47% of respondents. An ABC News/538 poll showed 47.7% approving of Trump’s performance, though Congress received far lower marks.
On trade, however, the numbers are harsher. A CNN/SSRS poll revealed just 39% approved of Trump’s handling of tariffs, with 61% disapproving. Still, he maintained stronger ratings on immigration (51%), the budget (48%), and the economy (45%).
An Emerson College poll after his 50th day in office found 47% satisfied with his performance, 45% dissatisfied. Though slightly down from his early-term numbers, Trump’s support remains resilient even as his tariff policies face sharp public criticism.
