New approval ratings show a significant shift in how Americans view Donald Trump during his second term.
The 79-year-old returned to the White House in January 2025 after defeating Kamala Harris in the 2024 election. He began his term with promises to strengthen the economy, curb illegal immigration, and reduce foreign conflicts.
More than a year later, polling suggests mixed public sentiment. Trump’s administration has faced criticism over inflation, foreign policy disputes, and immigration enforcement tactics.
Tensions with NATO allies and controversial domestic incidents have also shaped perceptions. These developments have influenced the latest approval figures.
Trump secured over 80 million votes in the 2024 election. His campaign centered on economic recovery and stricter border controls. However, the past year has included public protests and diplomatic strains.
These events have contributed to growing political debate nationwide.
ICE shootings intensify political pressure
Recent incidents involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement have heightened tensions. The shooting of nurse Alex Pretti in Minneapolis sparked protests and bipartisan calls for investigation. Pretti was legally carrying a firearm but was not holding it at the time of the incident, according to circulating videos.
The Department of Homeland Security stated officers acted in self-defense. The incident followed the earlier death of Renee Good, who was also shot by an ICE agent.
Both cases have prompted scrutiny of federal immigration enforcement. Republican lawmakers including Representative Michael McCaul and Senators Thom Tillis, Bill Cassidy, Susan Collins, and Lisa Murkowski have called for further review.
Officials including Stephen Miller and Kristi Noem described Good as a domestic terrorist. DHS representatives alleged Pretti posed a serious threat. Critics argue the events reflect broader concerns about immigration policy.
The shootings have intensified protests in several cities.
Foreign policy disputes and domestic concerns
Trump’s proposal regarding Greenland also generated backlash. Greenland remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark, a NATO ally. Trump suggested US control of the island was vital for national security. The idea was criticized by European leaders and domestic opponents.
Additional controversy followed reports of the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and threats of military action in Iran, Mexico, and Colombia. Critics warned of possible escalation into broader conflicts. Trump’s tariff threats against NATO allies also drew criticism, though a trade dispute was later avoided.
These developments come ahead of the November midterm elections. Control of Congress will determine legislative momentum for the remainder of Trump’s term. Historically, midterms reflect more settled public views of a presidency.
Trump has also continued to claim the 2020 election was stolen, despite evidence to the contrary. He has occasionally referenced the idea of a third term, which is barred by the 22nd Amendment. Comments about midterms prompted strong reactions from Democrats, while supporters said he was joking.
Economic promises and voter frustration
The economy remains central to public opinion. Trump campaigned on lowering prices and easing cost-of-living pressures. However, inflation concerns persist, and many Americans report ongoing financial strain.
Trump has stated that tariffs would reduce consumer costs. Polling suggests many voters have yet to see measurable benefits. Some supporters have expressed concern about immigration enforcement targeting non-criminal individuals. Reports of detentions and deportations have added to criticism.
An AP-NORC poll conducted in January found that 40 percent of US adults approve of Trump’s performance. The same survey reported that 59 percent disapprove. Only 37 percent approve of his handling of the economy, while 62 percent disapprove.
Approval for immigration policy stands at 38 percent, while foreign policy and trade negotiations receive 37 percent approval. A The New York Times and Siena College poll found nearly half of voters believe their lives are worse than four years ago. Sixty-four percent said Trump has mismanaged cost-of-living issues.
Trump has dismissed unfavorable polls as inaccurate on his platform Truth Social. His approval ratings also declined during his first term, preceding his 2020 election loss to Joe Biden. Despite that setback and the events of January 6, he returned to office in 2025.
With midterms approaching, public opinion remains divided. Protests, economic uncertainty, and foreign policy disputes have shaped the first year of Trump’s second term.
Republicans will look to stabilize support before voters head to the polls in November.
Featured image credit: The White House
