Trump’s Approval Ratings Take a Hit: What the Latest Polls Reveal

According to an analysis by FiveThirtyEight, an average of national polls shows that 47.9% of respondents disapprove of Trump’s performance, compared to 47.6% who approve. This marks a turning point in his approval ratings, signaling growing discontent among voters. The data suggests that this trend is not an anomaly, as the poll averages are expected to hold steady within a 95% confidence range.

Varying Poll Results and Key Concerns

While polling data varies across different sources, the Ipsos/Reuters poll paints a concerning picture for the Trump administration. It reports a 51% disapproval rating, with only 44% of respondents approving—resulting in a negative gap of seven percentage points. Additionally, nearly half (49%) of Americans believe the country is heading in the wrong direction, compared to just 34% who feel optimistic about its trajectory.

Among those dissatisfied with the nation’s direction, the most pressing issues include:

• Rising cost of living – 60% cite it as a major concern
• Economic uncertainty – 51% worry about financial stability
• National politics and governance – 50% express dissatisfaction
• Foreign policy – 49% disapprove of current diplomatic efforts
• Employment and job market – 47% remain concerned

Interestingly, immigration policy is the only area where more Americans (48%) believe the country is on the right track, compared to 39% who feel otherwise.

Conflicting Polling Data and Public Opinion

Not all surveys align with these findings. A separate poll conducted by Emerson College presents a different perspective, showing Trump with a 48% approval rating and 43% disapproval—a positive margin of five percentage points. While his approval remained steady compared to the previous month, his disapproval rating saw a slight increase.

In this poll, respondents highlighted their top concerns as follows:

• The economy (41%)
• Threats to democracy (18%)
• Immigration (13%)
• Healthcare (8%)

The Emerson College poll also gauged public opinion on government cost-cutting measures led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The results were mixed: 41% of respondents approved of DOGE’s efforts, 46% disapproved, and 13% remained neutral.

Polling Methodology and Final Takeaway

The Ipsos/Reuters poll surveyed 1,174 residents between March 3-4, with a margin of error of ±3.1 percentage points. Emerson College’s poll, conducted from March 2-3, included 1,000 registered voters and had a ±3 percentage point margin of error.

The variation in poll results highlights the ongoing divide in public sentiment toward Trump’s presidency. While economic concerns dominate voter priorities, shifts in approval ratings suggest that the administration faces increasing scrutiny as the next election cycle approaches.