Assessing Trump: Public Perception of the President Four Months into His Second Term

Trump Celebrates Legislative Success

President Donald Trump recently celebrated one of his significant legislative victories during his second administration. “THE ONE, BIG, BEAUTIFUL BILL” has PASSED the House of Representatives!” he proclaimed via social media on Thursday.

This announcement came right after the GOP-controlled House narrowly passed Trump’s extensive tax and spending cuts package. The legislation reflects many of Trump’s campaign promises and focuses on key issues such as tax cuts, immigration reforms, defense spending, energy policy, and the debt limit.

Poll Numbers Under Pressure

Despite the legislative win, recent polls indicate that Trump’s approval ratings are struggling. Two surveys released earlier in the week showed that his approval continues to lag behind his disapproval ratings. According to a national survey conducted by Marquette Law School, Trump had a 46% approval rating against a 54% disapproval rating. A Reuters/Ipsos poll further revealed a 42% approval and 52% disapproval rate.

Additionally, a Gallup poll made available on Friday, but conducted prior to the House’s vote, showed Trump’s approval at 43% with a disapproval rating of 53%. While some of the latest national surveys reveal Trump’s approval under water, a few suggest that he may still have higher approval ratings in specific areas.

Trump’s Executive Moves and Policy Changes

During his second term, Trump has actively pursued an assertive use of executive authority, aiming to reverse longstanding government policies and initiate significant reductions in the federal workforce. This has been accomplished through a series of sweeping and often controversial executive orders and actions, many of which address long-held grievances that Trump has since his first term.

Initially, Trump entered his second administration with a relatively positive public perception. However, his approval ratings began to decline shortly after his late-January inauguration.

Border Security and Immigration Support

Amidst declining overall approval, Trump has found substantial support in certain areas, particularly relating to border security and immigration. According to the Marquette Law School poll, Trump’s approval rating regarding border security was recorded at 56%, while immigration rated at 50%. These issues were key elements of his successful 2024 campaign to reclaim the presidency.

However, despite Trump’s prominent actions on border security and immigration—actions that have drawn controversy and legal challenges—these efforts have not significantly boosted his overall approval metrics.

Daron Shaw, a member of the Fox News Decision Team, pointed out that “immigration is declining now as a salient issue.” As a political science professor at the University of Texas, Shaw remarks, “Immigration and especially border security are beginning to lose steam as one of the top three issues facing the country. While Republicans still view these matters as important, many Democrats and independents have shifted their focus back toward the economy.”

Impact of Economic Concerns

The shift in public focus appears to be influenced by economic issues, especially as concerns over inflation remain highly visible. Trump’s performance regarding the economy, alongside rising inflation, has contributed to a downturn in his overall approval ratings—conditions that previously hindered President Joe Biden’s approval as well.

In early April, Trump’s announcement regarding tariffs initiated a trade conflict with several leading trading partners, which in turn led to a significant sell-off in financial markets and increased worries about a looming recession. Although markets have made a recovery, due in part to a truce between the U.S. and China regarding tariffs, the economic landscape remains a crucial factor for the President’s approval.

Current Approval Ratings and Economic Issues

Recent polling data suggests that Trump’s approval regarding tariffs stands at just 37%, with only 34% approval concerning inflation and cost of living. In another poll conducted by Reuters/Ipsos, Trump’s overall approval for the economy was reported at 39%, with a mere 33% on cost of living.

Longtime GOP strategist Doug Heye pointed to the implications of last year’s election outcomes, emphasizing that the primary reason for Trump’s electoral success was his promise to lower prices. However, the ongoing prevalence of high prices, aside from a decrease in gas prices, may be impacting public sentiment negatively and is reflected in the polling data.

Shaw reiterates that “Prices haven’t come down, and it remains uncertain whether people will regard the absence of inflation as a victory for the economy. Many still feel significant portions of their income are being consumed by basic necessities.” This perception highlights the challenge Trump faces in portraying economic success unless he can demonstrate tangible reductions in prices.

Conclusion

In summary, while President Trump has achieved notable legislative success during his second term with the passing of significant tax and spending measures, he faces challenges with fluctuating approval ratings influenced by economic performance and shifting public priorities. His focus on border security and immigration may provide a semblance of support, but the declining relevance of these issues in the broader national discourse, coupled with ongoing economic concerns, poses obstacles in solidifying a favorable approval rating.