Approval Ratings Slip Below Water
President Donald Trump’s approval rating has dipped into negative territory, with nearly every major pollster now showing more Americans disapprove of his job performance than approve. According to Newsweek’s tracker, Trump’s approval rating stands at 48%, while disapproval is at 49%, marking a one-point drop since Friday.
The Fox News poll, conducted between March 14-17, also found that 51% of respondents disapprove of Trump’s performance, while 49% approve, giving him a net rating of -2. Meanwhile, the latest YouGov/Economist and Morning Consult polls recorded a net approval of -3.
Trump’s Handling of the Economy Draws Criticism
Dissatisfaction with Trump’s economic policies appears to be a key driver of his declining popularity. A Fox News poll found that 56% of Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of the economy, while only 43% approve. The latest Reuters/Ipsos poll paints an even bleaker picture, with only 38% approving of Trump’s economic leadership and a mere 34% expressing confidence in his ability to manage the cost of living.
Adding to concerns, 71% of Americans believe the economy will enter a recession this year, while Trump’s trade policies—especially tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China—are fueling fears of higher inflation. Goldman Sachs previously estimated that these tariffs could push inflation up by 1% and provoke retaliatory actions from other countries.
Comparisons to Biden and First-Term Approval
At this point in his presidency, Trump’s 48% approval rating is lower than Joe Biden’s 53% approval rating on March 26, 2021, according to RealClearPolitics. However, compared to his first term, Trump’s popularity has improved. On March 26, 2017, his approval rating stood at just 43%, with a disapproval rating of 52%, giving him a net approval of -9.
Despite the recent dip, some polls remain favorable. Rasmussen Reports, known for producing more Republican-leaning results, places Trump’s net approval at +4. Meanwhile, RMG Research, founded by Scott Rasmussen, gave him a net approval of +8, with 53% approving and 45% disapproving.
Outlook and Potential Shifts
Trump’s approval rating will likely continue to fluctuate in the coming weeks, influenced by economic developments, U.S. trade policies, ongoing tensions over the Russia-Ukraine war, and the potential for a recession. His ability to regain public trust on economic issues could be a crucial factor in shaping political dynamics ahead of the midterm elections.