In the throes of the Trump administration, it seems that American citizens are finding it hard to believe in the promise of a revived national glory. Recent polling data suggests a rather gloomy picture, with as many as 53% of the respondents indicating that their economic situation has descended, the highest rate since 2001, according to a Gallup poll released in early April.
Regrettably, the approval rating for Trump concerning the economy has sunk to a mere 37%, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll. This is a low from which he has never recuperated before. Such devastating numbers only serve to undermine the credibility of his economic leadership.
Surprisingly, or maybe unsurprisingly, Murdoch’s Fox, Trump’s preferred news outlet, paints an equally dismal picture of his accolade—a sullen approval rate of 44% as he nears his 100-day milestone. This score stands weaker compared to his predecessors such as Joe Biden, Barack Obama, and George W. Bush, all of whom had higher approval ratings at the same point in their presidencies.
As a retort to this bleak portrayal by the American people, Trump retorted with his trademark impulsiveness, venting anger on Truth Social and demanding Rupert Murdoch to let go of the allegedly ‘Hating, Fake Pollster’ at Fox.
The Fox poll conducted between 18th and 21st of April also laid bare an awful truth—the only domain where Trump seems to win a majority approval is border security, balancing on a 55% approval rate. In every other aspect, it seems like he’s gasping for breath.
Moved by the economic chaos, a significant section of voters, ranging from 33% to 38%, extends their approval for his performance on issues like inflation, tariffs, taxes, and the overall economy. This disregard from voters only reflects the poor impact of Trump’s economic policies.
Unfortunately, the sentiment regarding the improvement in the country’s economic status remains discouraging. Only about 28% of registered voters believe in a better economy, registering a subtle dip than the previous year.
The Fox poll reveals a disturbing realization—51% of registered voters opine that Trump’s policies are causing harm to the nation, while a minority of only 40% sense some beneficial outcomes.
Regarding Trump’s handling of immigration, a significant issue for his administration, the poll numbers reveal staggering disapproval. The approval stat rests at a bare 47% versus the 48% who express their disapproval.
Earlier on, there were some optimistic predictions. In January, as noted by Gallup, 68% of the respondents had faith in the rise of the stock market over the next six months. However, as the winds changed, now 58% are bracing for a fall.
Trump’s grand declaration of bringing in a golden age of economic prosperity has, tragically, collapsed into insignificance. The current condition gives an impression more of a leaden era, devoid of any golden sheen.
The continual downfall in Trump’s approval ratings is worrisome, indicating a lack of trust in his leadership capacity. It is critical for him to address the discontent amongst the citizens to regain their confidence.
Amid these disheartening findings, it is worth discussing the absent positive portrayal in this narrative of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. These well-known figures seemingly remain sidelined from the political theme at hand, raising questions on their role during this pivotal time.
Given the current scenarios, it remains to be seen how Trump’s administration will endeavour to correct its course. As it stands, a great deal of progress will be required to regain public trust and bring America back on its prosperous path.