Trump Reacts to Record-Low Approval Ratings
President Donald Trump has responded after a wave of new polls revealed how Americans currently view his leadership during his second term in office.
Controversial Moves Stir Public Opinion
In just five months, Trump has pushed several headline-making policies. These include a strict crackdown on immigration—sparking protests in Los Angeles—and efforts to dismantle Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. He has also pushed for higher tariffs, another decision drawing mixed reactions.
Poll Numbers Plunge to Historic Low
According to a Quinnipiac University poll released on June 11, only 38% of Americans approve of Trump’s performance. ABC News reports this is the lowest presidential approval rating in 80 years.
Survey participants were asked about Trump’s handling of the economy, immigration, the Ukraine-Russia war, and his connection to Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The results were largely unfavorable.
Trump Responds with Optimism
Despite the numbers, Trump remains unfazed. Posting on Truth Social on June 18, he declared:
“Great Poll Numbers For Trump!”
He also shared data from InsiderAdvantage showing a +10 job approval rating, though critics suggest this may reflect selective data usage.
Key Areas of Concern
Approval for Trump’s immigration policy, traditionally a strong area for him, dropped to 43%. His stance on trade received only 38% approval. On the Ukraine-Russia conflict, just 34% of Americans expressed support for his approach.
Poll analyst Tim Malloy commented:
“As the Russia-Ukraine war grinds through its third year, Americans make it clear they have little appetite for the way the Trump administration is handling the situation.”
Musk’s Mixed Reception
Respondents also weighed in on Elon Musk’s role in the administration. While Musk’s popularity has waned with some Republicans, he and DOGE still enjoy strong support among the GOP base, Malloy noted.
Approval Continues to Dip
The June 16 Harvard CAPS/Harris poll showed Trump’s approval rating slipping for the fifth straight month, dropping from 47% to 46%. However, he remains favored among Republican, male, white, rural, and 25–44-year-old voters. His highest-rated issue remains immigration, with 49% approval.