Trump's Approval Ratings Plummet Amid Tariff Turmoil and Immigration Controversies

Trump's Approval Ratings Plummet Amid Tariff Turmoil and Immigration Controversies

As President Donald Trump marks the 100th day of his second term, a series of polls indicate a notable decline in public approval. Once buoyed by promises of economic revitalization and stringent immigration control, the administration now faces skepticism from a significant portion of the American populace.​

Economic Policies Under Scrutiny

Central to the waning approval is the administration's aggressive tariff strategy. Intended to protect domestic industries, these tariffs have instead sparked fears of a trade war and potential recession. A Reuters/Ipsos poll reveals that 73% of Americans anticipate a surge in prices due to the tariffs, with 57% opposing the policy outright. Economic experts have criticized the administration's approach, noting that the tariff calculations lack a solid empirical foundation and may have been influenced by oversimplified models. ​Reuters+2Wikipedia+2The Washington Post+2

Immigration Measures Fuel Discontent

The administration's hardline stance on immigration, characterized by expedited deportations and stringent border controls, has also drawn criticism. While initial actions saw some public support, recent polls indicate a shift in sentiment. A Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll shows that approval for Trump's immigration policies has dipped into negative territory, reflecting concerns over due process and humanitarian considerations. ​The Washington Post

Public Perception and Political Ramifications

The cumulative effect of these policies is evident in the president's approval ratings. A Pew Research Center survey places his approval at 40%, a decline from earlier in the year. Notably, 59% of Americans disapprove of the tariff increases, and 55% disapprove of cuts to federal departments and agencies. ​The Washington Post+2Pew Research Center+2The Washington Post+2

Despite these challenges, the Democratic Party has yet to capitalize fully on the administration's vulnerabilities. While they hold a slight edge in generic ballot polls, trust in their ability to address national issues remains limited, suggesting a complex political landscape as the 2026 midterm elections approach. ​The Washington Post

Conclusion

President Trump's second term has encountered significant hurdles in its initial phase, with economic and immigration policies contributing to declining public support. As the administration navigates these challenges, its ability to adapt and address public concerns will be crucial in shaping the political narrative leading up to the midterms.​The Washington Post+1Marist Poll+1

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Sources:

• Washington Post: 7 poll numbers that sum up Trump's first 100 days

• Reuters: Trump's approval steady, concerns over economy, immigration rise

• Pew Research Center: Trump’s job rating drops; key policies draw majority disapproval

• Washington Post: Trump's immigration ratings turn negative, Post-ABC-Ipsos poll finds

• Wikipedia: Tariffs in the second Trump administration​The Washington PostReutersPew Research Center+1The Washington Post+1The Washington PostWikipedia+1Wikipedia+1