Global perceptions of the person considered the wealthiest individual on the planet have experienced a notable 66-point downturn following his entrance into the political arena, as shown by the results of a recent survey released on Thursday. The very same individual had been celebrated as the most adored public figure in a poll conducted in June 2016. However, nearly ten years on, his approval ratings have plummeted significantly.
In the current month, a mere 23 percent of poll respondents hold a favorable view of this influential tech magnate, with a high proportion of 60 percent expressing an unfavorable sentiment toward him. Consequently, his overall net favorability comes out to an unimpressive -37 points, as reported.
Much of the deterioration in positive public opinion has occurred in the last four months. In that period, his popularity among Republican Party supporters has seen a dramatic 55-point drop.
The slumping approval ratings have struck a blow to his aspirations of establishing a potent third party. Across America, while there is indeed a demand for a third political party as a distinctive choice apart from the Democrats and Republicans, citizens overwhelmingly reject the idea of this third party being spearheaded by him.
In terms of actual numbers, only around 22 percent of polled voters exhibited an inclination towards a third party under his leadership. On the other hand, a firm 74 percent were opposed to it, as per the survey findings.
Subsequent opinion polls presented a similar picture. In one such survey, roughly half the respondents, about 45 percent, agreed on the essential role of a successful third party for the sake of national interest. However, only a small fractionated 11 percent amongst them declared their support for his version of a third party.
Americans historically have voiced their concerns about bureaucracy and extravagance infiltrating top government tiers. Yet, they were not appreciative of this billionaire’s metaphorical execution of ‘scorched earth’ strategies towards these federal entities.
The extensive cuts and changes introduced to several federal offices and their operations under his influence were particularly frowned upon. An assessment of numerous surveys conducted in April highlighted the general American disapproval of this strategy.
His role in the political landscape of the country has been on shaky ground since his public dismissal of ties with a prominent political figure in the preceding month. This dismissal was seen as an attempt, albeit a failed one, to thwart the ‘grand, ambitious bill’ of the president.
Moreover, he even insinuated that the president was part of some illicit activity. He tried intimidating Republicans who were in favor of the budget bill, even threatening to primary them. Yet, despite his hardball tactics, he couldn’t influence a single vote.
Admittedly, his provocative actions and fiery rhetoric have created ripples in the political sphere. But as his favorability ratings continue to wane, potential allies become more wary and the general public more skeptical.
Will he be able to ameliorate his relationship with the public and his political counterparts? Or will his aspirations of leading a third party remain just that – mere aspirations?
The future remains uncertain. So does his place in it. What is clear though, is that his controversial foray into politics has had profound impacts.
Popularity, as they say, has a short lifeline, especially in politics where public sentiment is the lifeblood. Maybe, the ambitious billionaire learned this the hard way.
From the spotlight of popularity to the shadow of doubt, his journey marks a noteworthy case in the chronicles of public opinion. As an ending note, one must remember: in politics, today’s king could become tomorrow’s pauper.