President Donald Trump’s approval rating has plummeted to a new low during his second term, as backlash intensifies over his recent economic policies particularly the implementation of new tariffs that have rattled markets and raised cost-of-living concerns.
A new Economist/YouGov poll reveals that 51% of Americans now disapprove of Trump’s performance, while just 43% express approval. This results in a net approval rating of -8, reflecting a five-point drop compared to last week and a 14-point decline since he began his second term in office.
The 78-year-old president is facing heightened criticism over economic decisions that triggered volatility in the stock market and are expected to drive up the prices of everyday goods. Among Trump’s supporters, approval has also declined, with support among Republican voters falling from 91% to 85% over the past two weeks.
Additionally, the percentage of Americans who view Trump unfavorably has risen from 49% to 54% within the same timeframe.
The primary source of public discontent stems from Trump’s economic strategy. According to the poll, 51% of respondents disapprove of his handling of the economy, while 55% are dissatisfied with his approach to managing prices and inflation. Many voters are especially critical of unmet campaign promises, such as lowering the cost of essential items like eggs.
The Department of Justice recently launched an investigation into surging egg prices, probing whether major producers may have conspired to limit supply and inflate costs. The situation has led to nationwide shortages and purchase limits in grocery stores.
Trump’s announcement of a 10% global tariff—dubbed “Liberation Day” was made in a Rose Garden ceremony on April 2. He deliberately avoided April 1 to underscore the seriousness of the policy. However, after initially proposing reciprocal tariffs on certain nations, Trump abruptly reversed that decision mid-week, maintaining only the global tariff.
Markets initially responded positively, but quickly dipped again as the long-term implications of the tariff policy became clear. Despite the backlash, the president defended the strategy on social media.
“We are doing really well on our TARIFF POLICY. Very exciting for America, and the World!!! It is moving along quickly,” Trump wrote Friday on Truth Social.
Polling data indicates that more than half of Americans oppose the tariffs even at the 10% minimum. Roughly 80% fear the tariffs will raise prices on consumer goods, and nearly half believe the increase will be significant. Some businesses have already begun adding a “Trump tariff surcharge” to imported products.
Meanwhile, former President Joe Biden’s approval rating at the same point in his presidency was +9, though he also experienced a low of -23 during his final year in office.
Trump is expected to undergo his annual physical exam at Walter Reed National Medical Center before heading to Florida for the weekend at his Mar-a-Lago estate.
Reference
Trump’s Approval Rating Drops Amid Backlash Over Tariffs