President Donald Trump remains undeterred even as new polling numbers reveal troubling trends for his approval rating. The latest figures indicate that his support has plummeted to its lowest point since he took office for his second term, sitting at just 37%. Trump is dismissing these results, ridiculing the media and pollsters while asserting his influence within the White House. “As I look around my beautiful surroundings,” he remarked, “I say to myself, ‘Oh, look, I’m sitting in the Oval Office!’” This lighthearted self-affirmation captivated his supporter base and spread like wildfire on social media.
The CNN/SSRS poll from late October paints a stark picture. It shows rising discontent among Americans, with disapproval of Trump’s presidency now hitting 63%. This label of lowest approval is not just a number; it reflects deeper sentiments regarding his presidency, particularly concerning critical issues such as the economy and immigration. An overwhelming 72% of respondents claim the U.S. economy is in dire straits, while 61% believe Trump’s economic policies have worsened conditions. The public has also expressed concerns about his foreign policy, with over half of those surveyed stating it has negatively affected America’s global standing.
Specific numbers reveal that a significant portion of the population feels that Trump has overstepped his executive authority, with 61% indicating he has abused his presidential powers. Such disapproval could have serious implications for Republicans heading into the midterms in 2026, especially as they grapple with the growing divide between approval and disapproval. Trump insists these unfavorable polling numbers are politically motivated, a sentiment he has echoed throughout his presidency.
During an impromptu media interaction, Trump reiterated his skepticism about pollsters, maintaining that the energy at his rallies speaks volumes. He argued, “These are the same people who said I had no shot in Michigan,” pointing to his past successes as a contrasting narrative to current polling results. Yet, the stark disconnect between his defense and public sentiment indicates deeper issues may be at play. While he touts job creation and a robust stock market, many voters do not feel these improvements translate into tangible benefits for their households.
Additionally, sentiments expressed in a related Economist/YouGov poll reflect a waning approval, especially among white voters, a crucial demographic for Trump’s electoral success. The poll indicates his approval has slipped to 47%, while disapproval has crept up to 50%. The economic picture is particularly troubling, showing a net negative approval rating of negative 22 points on the economy and jobs, along with negative ratings on inflation by 31 points. Voter sentiment regarding his East Wing reconstruction project has also taken a hit, with almost 61% expressing disapproval, a matter compounded by ongoing federal budget disputes.
Political analysts weigh in on the significance of the latest approval ratings. For example, Allen Houston from YouGov points out that this current standing is unprecedented for Trump in his second term compared to prior measures. Grant Davis Reeher, a political science professor, emphasizes that missteps during a government shutdown, combined with persistent inflation, are contributing to erosion in support—even among staunch backers.
The ongoing government shutdown, which is now more than a month old, adds another layer of uncertainty for Americans, affecting crucial sectors such as healthcare and public services. Recent reports from the FAA regarding air traffic safety not only highlight the impact of the shutdown but also the growing concerns over the stability of services critical to citizens. Discussions about rising premiums due to budgeting issues only exacerbate the already strained trust in the administration.
Amid all this, Trump’s team remains adamant that media and polling operations misrepresent reality, stating, “People aren’t buying what CNN is selling.” They believe that on the ground, particularly in rural areas and battleground states like Arizona and Florida, a different narrative unfolds—one of enthusiasm and support for Trump’s agenda.
Nevertheless, as long-term tracking indicates, Trump finds himself in a challenging position. Gallup’s annual measures suggest that while his presidency faces turbulence, the Republican Party as a whole retains strength among certain voter segments. As the White House appears focused on shaping narratives rather than altering policies, the resistance in Trump’s comments showcases his determination to hold firm against criticism. “Fake polls made by fake people,” he declared, reinforcing his position as he concluded the press interaction. “I’m in the Oval Office. They’re not.”
The coming weeks are crucial. With ongoing public frustration over pressing issues and the deeply entrenched political polarization, it remains to be seen how much support Trump can count on as the midterm elections approach. His approval numbers may be at a low point, but Trump insists he possesses the resolve to remain a significant figure on the political landscape.
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