A recent CNN poll conducted by SSRS indicates a significant decline in public approval of President Donald Trump’s handling of the US economy. The findings reflect growing economic pessimism among Americans, with economic concerns continuing to dominate as the most important issue facing the country.
Trump’s approval of the economy
-Trump’s approval rating for managing the economy fell to 31%, a new career low in a CNN poll.
-That marks a significant drop since January, including a 14-point drop among Republicans.
-Among Republicans under 45, approval fell even more significantly, by *3 points.
Growing dissatisfaction with economic conditions
-About two-thirds of Americans believe Trump’s policies have worsened economic conditions, up 10 points since January.
-About 75% describe the economy as in bad shape, with a growing share describing it as “very bad”.
-About 60% expect economic conditions to remain bad over the next year, the highest level seen during Trump’s presidency.
Inflation and cost of living pressures
-Approval of Trump’s handling of inflation fell to 27%, down from 44% a year ago.
-63% of Americans report financial hardship due to higher fuel costs, including 15% who describe the hardship as severe.
-Most (57%) see rising gas prices as temporary, though many remain skeptical of long-term help.
-70% believe the president lacks a clear plan to address fuel prices, and only 24% approve of his handling of the problem.
Erosion of support within the Republican base
Strong approval among Republicans fell from 52% in January to 43%.
-Additionally, 28% of Republicans now say Trump’s policies have made the economy worse, more than double the number from January.
Overall work performance
-Trump’s overall approval rating is 35%, near an all-time low.
-67% of Americans believe he has not focused enough on the country’s most pressing issues.
Concerns about foreign policy
-63% say Trump’s foreign policy decisions have harmed the US’s global standing, up 6 points since January.
-Only 36% approve of his handling of foreign affairs.
Public opinion on governance and politics
Most Americans believe Trump has gone too far in several areas:
– Expansion of US power internationally
– Use of executive power
-Cutting federal programs
– Deportation policy (55% say it has gone too far)
Blame the government shutdown
-39% blame Republicans in Congress for partially shutting down the Department of Homeland Security
Only 20% of Americans see the shutdown as a crisis, and most believe that recent administration actions have not improved the situation.
Expectation vs reality
-Most Americans (including 84% of Republicans) say Trump’s presidency has met their expectations.
-However, this sentiment is sharply divided:
-Among supporters: 91% say performance meets expectations
-Among the critics: opinions are almost evenly split
The survey highlights a clear decline in confidence in Trump’s economic leadership, driven by persistent inflation, rising costs and a pessimistic outlook on future conditions. While his overall approval rating has remained relatively stable, cracks are appearing in his core support, particularly on economic issues.
Economic concerns continue to dominate public priorities, and data suggest that perceptions of ineffective policy responses – particularly on inflation and fuel prices – are central to eroding support.
